English Crested
English Crested Guinea Pig Breed Profile
| Fur | Short, straight, close, thick |
| Rosettes | None |
| Characteristics | Crown (in same color as fur) |
| Lifespan | 4-6 years |
| Suitable for | Beginners |
Breed Characteristics
The English Crested’s characteristic feature is its crest. This is also sometimes called a crown. To be precise, this is a whorl on the head between the eyes and ears. Breeders prefer it when it’s perfectly round. This guinea pig doesn’t have any other whorls or rosettes on its short, dense, smooth fur. Unlike the American Crested, the English’s crest isn’t white, but the same color as the rest of its coat. So it’s kind of “invisible”.
Colors
The guinea pig doesn’t have to be completely all one color though. It can have a coat of many different colors, like tortoiseshell or agouti. Because there are fewer restrictions on the color, these guinea pigs are easier to breed than American Cresteds. Without their crowns, both breeds would be completely normal American guinea pigs.
Cuddly Pets?
As all guinea pigs, the English Crested is attentive and curious but usually shy and reserved around people. These animals don’t like being picked up or stroked. But they like being watched.
Fur Care
Grooming an English Crested is very simple as their coats are short and straight. You just need a soft brush to use when they get too dirty. However, you should still be very careful to make sure that you don’t cause any unnecessary suffering through pulling or catching hairs.
Keeping Them Outdoors
Short-haired guinea pigs can be kept outdoors in summer. As their fur doesn’t drag on the ground, dirt doesn’t build up in their coats. The fur stays clean and the risk of bacteria breeding or parasites settling is lower. Of course, there are a few things to keep in mind if you’d like to keep guinea pigs outdoors (cage, location etc.). It’s best to get yourself a good guinea pig guide.
Fun Facts
“Crested” refers to the tuft of hair on the piggy’s head as it looks like a crown.
