The most common standard guinea pig breed. Short-haired and easy to groom. Gentle and ideal for first-time owners.
The English (or American) guinea pig is the most common and widely recognized domestic guinea pig breed. Adults measure 20–30 cm and weigh 700–1,200 g. Their short, smooth, sleek coat—typically 1–2 cm in length—is the easiest to maintain of all guinea pig breeds and comes in an extensive range of colors including solid, bicolor, tricolor, and agouti patterns. English guinea pigs are celebrated for their gentle, sociable disposition and expressive vocalizations. They are highly recommended for first-time owners and families with children. As with all guinea pigs, they cannot synthesize vitamin C, necessitating daily dietary supplementation through bell peppers, broccoli, parsley, and similar foods. Unlimited timothy hay should form the bulk of their diet. Optimal temperature is 18–26 °C. Common health concerns include scurvy, urolithiasis, and dental disease. Lifespan is 5–8 years.
Origin
Andes region of South America
Lifespan
5-7 years
Size
20-30cm / 700-1200g
Temperature
18〜26℃
Humidity
40〜60%
Timothy hay (staple), pellets, vitamin C-rich vegetables
Short, smooth coat. Easiest breed to groom
Gentle and social. Easy to tame and handle
Spacious cage with pair housing ideal. Same-sex pairs safest
Watch for scurvy. Provide fresh vegetables daily
Beginner. This is a beginner-friendly species. No special equipment or experience is required, and it can be kept successfully with basic care setup.
The ideal temperature for English Guinea Pig is 18〜26℃. Recommended humidity is 40〜60%. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
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The average lifespan of English Guinea Pig is 5-7 years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
English Guinea Pig typically reaches 20-30cm / 700-1200g as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
English Guinea Pig feeds on: Timothy hay (staple), pellets, vitamin C-rich vegetables. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of English Guinea Pig varies significantly depending on morph, size, and lineage. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.