New member: hello!

[Emibee]

Hi! I’m from South Wales and I’m a prospective first-time guinea pig mum! I’m currently torn between two pairs of baby boar brothers. I plan on visiting both breeders so that I can meet the piggies but, apart from appearance, what should I be looking for when I see each pair for the first time? Any advice would be greatly appreciated! Thank you

 

[Piggies&buns]

The most important factors are that they are healthy and that they are getting on with each other.
Character compatibility is the most important factor of a successful long term bond and while more boar pairs make it together than not, being siblings and getting on as babies is not going to guarantee it, but it’s the best you can do when buying piggies from a breeder or a pet shop.
I would encourage you to go to a rescue centre to find some piggies as that way you can guarantee that they will be healthy and aren’t harbouring any illnesses and that they are well bonded and you won’t encounter bond problems down the line.

You must also check for yourself that they are in fact boys as missexing is common.
With boars, ensure you have a big enough cage - 180cm x 60cm is recommended to give them enough space and not create problems between them as teenagers.

A Comprehensive Guide to Guinea Pig Boars
Dominance Behaviours In Guinea Pigs

Quick Information Bundle For Wannabe Owners

 

[Flutterby]

 

[Siikibam]

 

[Emibee]

The most important factors are that they are healthy and that they are getting on with each other.
Character compatibility is the most important factor of a successful long term bond and while more boar pairs make it together than not, being siblings and getting on as babies is not going to guarantee it, but it’s the best you can do when buying piggies from a breeder or a pet shop.
I would encourage you to go to a rescue centre to find some piggies as that way you can guarantee that they will be healthy and aren’t harbouring any illnesses and that they are well bonded and you won’t encounter bond problems down the line.

You must also check for yourself that they are in fact boys as missexing is common.
With boars, ensure you have a big enough cage - 180cm x 60cm is recommended to give them enough space and not create problems between them as teenagers.

A Comprehensive Guide to Guinea Pig Boars
Dominance Behaviours In Guinea Pigs

Quick Information Bundle For Wannabe Owners

Thank you so much for the advice; it’s really useful! I

 

[Fantasimo]

I agree about compatibility. Look for pigs that are choosing to sit together rather than picking for looks etc. Especially with boys, as things can get a bit tense during their teen period and it helps if they have already been close.

The only other thing would be make double sure they are both boys, and look out for any signs of eye infections, skin conditions etc.

Otherwise, as stated above, you could see which rescue organisations already have bonded pairs. Either way, I would say that them getting along is the most important thing

Good luck, can’t wait to see some pigtures!

 

[Siikibam]

It’s not just especially with boys. Girls need to get on as well, even through their monthly season.

 

[Abirose]

Hello and to the forum

 

[jayne]

Welcome to guinea pig forum !

 

[Freya1234]

to the forum!

 

[Claire W]

Hello and welcome to the forum

 

[Merab's Slave]

Welcome to the forum.
@Piggies&buns has given you excellent advice.
We will look forward to pictures