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Cavia porcellus
A long-haired curly breed: a Peruvian with a rex-type coat. Long wavy hair sweeps forward over the body and needs daily care. Not among the 13 ACBA-recognized breeds.
The Alpaca guinea pig is a long-haired Peruvian carrying a rex (teddy) type curl, described in German-speaking countries as a 'gerexter Peruaner'. Like the Peruvian it has rosettes on the rump and head, and its long wavy coat sweeps forward over the head and body. It resembles the Texel (a rex-coated Sheltie) but is distinguished by coat direction and rosettes. The American Cavy Breeders Association recognizes 13 breeds such as Abyssinian, Peruvian and Texel; the Alpaca is not among them. Its country and year of origin are not known. As herd animals they should be kept in pairs or more, and because they cannot synthesize vitamin C it must be supplied daily through vegetables or supplements. The long coat soils and mats easily, so daily brushing and occasional trimming are essential. Room temperature of 17-20C is ideal; above 26C heatstroke becomes a risk. In Japan it is a rare breed obtained through specialist guinea pig breeders.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
The Alpaca Guinea Pig lives 4-8 years.
Care is the same as for any guinea pig: 20-25 cm long, 700-1,200 g, an average lifespan of four to five years with some reaching eight.
The Alpaca Guinea Pig grows to 20-25cm / 700-1200g.
The ideal temperature for the Alpaca Guinea Pig is 17〜20℃.
Origin
Unknown (fancy breed)
Edited & verified by: BreederDirect editorial team
The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.
Accepted name: Cavia porcellus (Linnaeus, 1758)
Authority databases: GBIF
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Sources: CITES Appendices (species not listed)
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
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Lifespan
4-8 years
Size
20-25cm / 700-1200g
Temperature
17〜20℃
Humidity
40〜60%
Timothy hay, guinea pig pellets, vegetables (vitamin C)
Wide-floored cage; change bedding often so the long coat stays clean
Daily brushing is essential; trim coat ends to keep it clean
Gentle and sociable like other guinea pigs
Supply vitamin C daily. Heatstroke risk above 26C. Watch for skin problems under the long coat
Intermediate. This is an intermediate-level species. Some prior experience and knowledge of environmental management are recommended.
The ideal temperature for Alpaca Guinea Pig is 17〜20℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
The average lifespan of Alpaca Guinea Pig is 4-8 years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
Alpaca Guinea Pig typically reaches 20-25cm / 700-1200g as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
Alpaca Guinea Pig feeds on: Timothy hay, guinea pig pellets, vegetables (vitamin C). Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Alpaca Guinea Pig varies significantly depending on variety, age, sex, and the individual animal's condition. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: September 15, 2026