Dwarf Guinea Pigs
The Truth about Dwarf Guinea Pigs
It seems that the smaller the pet, the more people desire to have them; for example, consider dwarf guinea pigs. Guinea pigs are already quite a popular pet, but with the adjective “dwarf” attached to the name, it seems that even more interest is shown in the small rodent.
Classified under the category of small pet, the guinea pig is actually a rodent that originated in South America. Their size is typically slightly larger than a hamster, weighing in at just a couple of pounds as an adult. With a life span that can extend over 5 years with the proper care, it is a pet to which people can become quite attached, and vice versa. There are three types of guinea pigs that are commonly found available for purchase as pets. One is short haired; called the “smooth haired guinea”. The other two have longer hair; the Abyssinian which grows clumps of fluffy fur all over the body and, possibly the most popular of all guinea pig pets, the Peruvian guinea which has glossy, long and flowing hair. All of these types are similar in size and weight. Overall, these animals make quite good pets; they are generally friendly and easy to care for; the reason for their popularity.
Given these facts, it is understandable that some people may believe that the guinea pig would be an even better choice as a pet if it were miniaturized; a growing trend with the breeding of many animals. As is true with most of these “fashion” pets, there is no such thing as dwarf guinea pigs. Yes, they are labeled as such, and they may indeed appear to be much smaller than the typical guinea pig. Selective breeding is often a method used to produce smaller versions of popular animals such as dogs, rabbits and others. In other cases, such as with the guinea pig, it is simply a case of selling the runts of the litter which are naturally smaller in size or by passing off a younger animal and calling it a “dwarf”.
Unfortunately for the unsuspecting owner these pets are, quite simply speaking, normal guinea pigs. Individuals pay a higher price than would be charged for a normal rodent pet and in return receive a guinea pig that will in all respects be the same animal. By falling prey to unscrupulous breeders and believing that miniature or dwarf guinea pigs actually do exist and are a specialized pet, the practice goes on unchecked; taking advantage of even more pet owners.
The fortunate aspect of the situation is that, even though the guinea pigs are being erroneously being marketed as something they are not, they will still make a great pet for the owner. They have not been specially bred which would affect their characteristics or traits, and therefore will remain the friendly and sociable pet that a guinea pig is known to be. The same care and attention must be paid to these pets, which is quite easy to do even for children.
Guinea pigs in general will require fresh vegetables in their diet on a daily basis, such as broccoli, tomatoes, green peppers and carrots. Fresh fruits, including bananas, apples and oranges are treats that can be offered at intervals. A cage and toys for the guinea pig will be start up costs, with food and bedding requiring ongoing expenses throughout the life of the pet. Regular trips to the veterinarian to ensure the pet’s health will present yet another cost.
When the term “miniature” or “dwarf” guinea pigs are advertised and especially when they are offered at a higher price than that of a normal guinea pig, the prospective owner must realize that the two animals are exactly the same. Simply enjoying the rodent for the wonderful pet that it is should be ample reason to own a guinea pig.