Bullying or am I overthinking?

[am0xapine]

Hi, i am an owner of two boars, one 2 years old and one 8(?) months old, and i have some questions about bonding. these two have been together for almost three months now and everything seemed fine until i noticed Finn, the 8 month old, rumble strutting A LOT. he often tries mounting Paco and it’s gotten to the point where paco will jerk his head up and show his teeth. After that, Finn would back off and sometimes even popcorn. I have never seen Finn continuously fight with Paco to the point where blood is drawn though and never witnessed them being VERY aggressive. I also noticed Finn chasing Paco around a lot and even not letting Paco drink water due to chasing him. Besides showing his teeth and barely lunging at Finn, Paco is doing alright and if in a good mood, let’s Finn nibble his ear and even lick inside of it. is this normal?

 

[Siikibam]

Finn is in his teens and is likely experiencing a hormone spike. He may also be making a play for the top spot, thereby demoting Paco to second place.

As long as Paco doesn’t retaliate and let’s himself be mounted, and he’s not losing weight, then they will hopefully work it out.

Bullying is quite different to normal teenage behaviour. It’s continual and leads to the bullies pig becoming withdrawn and losing weight. Have a read of the guide I’ve linked below on dominance levels, see where Finn sits. Hopefully all will be calm again soon.

Dominance Behaviours In Guinea Pigs

Boars: Teenage, Bullying, Fighting, Fall-outs And What Next?

A Comprehensive Guide to Guinea Pig Boars