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Cavia porcellus
Cross between Crested and Texel guinea pigs. Features a rosette on the crown with soft curly fur all over. Gentle and bonds well with owners.
The Merino guinea pig is a long-haired, curly-coated breed created by crossing Texel and Crested guinea pigs, combining the Texel's curly coat with the Crested's characteristic single forehead rosette. The coat is softer and finer in texture than the Texel, with gentle curls covering the entire body, and a single forward-facing rosette (crest) at the center of the forehead. Their temperament is calm and sociable, generally getting along well with other guinea pigs and adapting to handling with relative ease. Daily brushing is ideal to prevent matting. Hair around the eyes and mouth may need occasional trimming, and hindquarter hygiene requires regular attention. Diet consists of unlimited timothy hay and daily vitamin C supplementation. Common health concerns include scurvy, wool-related digestive issues, and dermatitis.
The Merino Guinea Pig lives 5-7 years.
Lifespan is 5–7 years.
The Merino Guinea Pig grows to 20-30cm / 800-1200g.
Adults measure 20–30 cm and weigh 800–1,200 g.
Origin
Andes region of South America (selectively bred variety)
Lifespan
5-7 years
Size
20-30cm / 800-1200g
Temperature
18〜26℃
Sources: RWAF Guinea Pig companionship
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.
Primary sources
Accepted name: Cavia porcellus Linnaeus, 1758
Authority databases: GBIF
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Sources: CITES Appendices
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
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Humidity
40〜60%
Timothy hay, guinea pig pellets, vitamin C-rich vegetables
Soft curls ideally brushed daily. Preventing matting is key
Trim around eyes and mouth regularly to prevent overgrowth
Daily vitamin C supplementation essential. Fresh veggies daily
Social, best kept with companions. Communicates through vocalizations
Intermediate. This is an intermediate-level species. Some prior experience and knowledge of environmental management are recommended.
The average lifespan of Merino Guinea Pig is 5-7 years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
Merino Guinea Pig typically reaches 20-30cm / 800-1200g as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
Merino Guinea Pig feeds on: Timothy hay, guinea pig pellets, vitamin C-rich vegetables. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Merino 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: June 24, 2026