Is this bullying or just boars

[RubyandMakkaPakka]

Hello, I got my 2 boars as babies back in July 2020 when they were about 3 months old
I believe. They live in a 5x3 ft cage so have plenty of room. They have never had a fight but ruby the dominant boar consultantly rumbles, and barges his bum into the other one (makka Pakka). He has a go at him for drinking, and eating often but does not prevent him drinking and eating after he has shown his dislike. He often mounts Makka Pakka and makka Pakka makes high pitch noises when he approaches. Is this a dysfunctional bond? Would makka Pakka be happier without ruby? I was wondering if I should
Do a trial separation or if the behaviour above of just typical of 2 boys living together. They are about 11/12 months old now. Thank
You so much

 

[Piggies&buns]

This sounds like normal dominance behaviour. They are teenagers and you’re going to get a lot of hormonal dominance. Provided the submissive is allowed to eat, rest etc then leave them to it. You don’t need to step in while it is only dominance behaviour.

do you have at least two of every item in the cage? Do all hideys have two exits?
One thing I found when my boars were teenagers was it is much better to scatter feed veg and pellets and not use bowls. I still do this now even though they are long out of their teens. That way there is no hogging and it also keeps them occupied as foraging is a natural behaviour


Dominance Behaviours In Guinea Pigs
A Comprehensive Guide to Guinea Pig Boars
Bonds In Trouble
Boars: Teenage, Bullying, Fighting, Fall-outs And What Next?

 

[RubyandMakkaPakka]

Thank you so much, all the hideys do have 2 exits but there isn't 2 of the same kind of hidey, one hammock, one teepee and one wooden house. Should they have one each of the same kind?
I will also put in another water bottle and hay bag at the opposite end. Thanks so much for your help

 

[Piggies&buns]

Thank you so much, all the hideys do have 2 exits but there isn't 2 of the same kind of hidey, one hammock, one teepee and one wooden house. Should they have one each of the same kind?
I will also put in another water bottle and hay bag at the opposite end. Thanks so much for your help

It doesn’t have to be all the same type, just as long as there is somewhere for both of them to go.
I personally prefer to use the same types though