White Crested Guinea Pig

   Also known as the American Crested, the White Crested Guinea Pig is a somewhat rare and very unique-looking breed. These little princes and princesses have what looks like a white crown on their heads.:

   Due to the stringent qualifications for showing the White Crested Guinea Pig, the majority of them are sold as pets. These pet animals may have non-conforming markings, but in most cases they still have the coveted crest on their heads. They also have the same sparkling personalities as other breeds of guinea pigs, even though some say their crest makes them look like they are perpetually angry.

   White Crested Guinea Pigs present quite a challenge to breeders, because as few as one in fifty of them conform to the breed standard. Although a showable White Crested is hard to find, those that have the correct markings often do well at shows.

• Guinea Pig Information – Guinea Pig Care Guide to a Happy Healthy Guinea Pig

Background

   The White Crested Guinea Pig was officially recognized by the American Rabbit Breeders Association in 1974. The breed continues to be somewhat rare, however, probably due to the difficulty of producing offspring of show quality. Satin has been introduced to the breed, but are not acceptable according to ARBA standards.

Description

   White Crested Guinea Pigs come in a variety of colors, but they must have a white crest on the top of the head. They should not have any white on the rest of the body if they are to be shown. True White Cresteds should have a short, smooth coat like that of the American Guinea Pig.
   White Crested’s may also be found in Satin. This is a coat that is glossier and denser than the standard White Crested coat. White Crested Satins are not recognized by the ACBA.

Color differences

   White Crested Guinea Pigs can be Agouti, Brindle, Self, or any other pattern that does not include any white. Dutch, Roan, Dalmatian, Himalayan, and White are not acceptable for show purposes.

Keeping Guinea Pigs

   Be sure to provide your guinea pig with a good home and a proper diet. This will keep it happy and healthy and ensure a great pet for a long time.

   Guinea pigs need plenty of exercise and they also love to play. You can let them outside or run around in the house for short periods of time under supervision. They love to explore and need at least one hour of supervised ‘floor time’ every day.

   When picking up a guinea pig make sure you do not grab it only by its shoulders. Just keep in mind when picking your pet up to do it evenly. With your hands, support it’s entire body, and be careful not to drop it.

   Guinea pigs are social creatures and will like to have a companion. They are great companions for children.

   Take time to learn what your guinea pig needs, including:

• housing
• care and feeding
• social behaviors
• activities
• handling and training
• breeding guinea pigs
• baby guinea pigs.

Availability

   White Crested’s of show and breeding quality are hard to find, but pet quality White Cresteds can be found with less difficulty. Prices are usually around $10 to $20 depending on quality.
   Guinea Pigs come in many varieties and are readily available at pet stores, shelters, and rescues. When looking to acquire a pet guinea pig make sure it is a healthy animal. A healthy guinea pig will have brilliant eyes, good sound teeth, and a healthy coat. Any age and either sex will make a good pet, however you should plan to get more than one as they are very social and do best with a companion. Get a same sex pair or you could end up having babies.

Featured Image Credit: Bad_Bear_Pictures, Pixabay