Bonding

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EEB90

New Born Pup
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Our 1 year old sow was recently bereaved and we have introduced an 8 week rescued sow. They are currently in separate indoor cages side by side when bringing them out to a neutral space they seem to be chattering happily but after a while the older sow starts to nip at the little'un and the little'un will obviously make a loud squeak. I'm finding it hard to watch as I feel for the little'un as she just seems to want a friend.
 
Ah yes, I’ve been there too. It seems like the older sow is just expressing dominance towards the little one, as nipping is normal when it comes to introducions (as long as it doesn’t turn into full on biting/fighting). Hopefully, they’ll figure it out on their own without raising to much of a scuffle.
 
They have now been together in the neutral space for about an hour and the nipping has settled, how long do you recommend them being out in the neutral space together?
 
EEB90 said:
They have now been together in the neutral space for about an hour and the nipping has settled, how long do you recommend them being out in the neutral space together?
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That’s a good sign! I wouldn’t push it beyond an hour. They’ll be bonded in no time
 
The squeals you hear are submission squeals and the baby is just letting her friend know she's happy to accept the older sow as boss. Please do not keep separating your girls. Guinea pigs don't do "play dates" and everytime they are put back together they have to start the dominance debate all over again. Please read through the guides @VickiA has linked you to and pick a time when you have plenty of time to oversee their bonding to the point they can be put in to one fully cleaned out cage together
 
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