Merino Guinea Pig

With its long, curly hair, the Merino guinea pig is not dissimilar from the Coronet, only it’s a curly version! It has shorter hair on its forehead, with a crest, and (as with other long and/or curly haired guinea pigs) will need regular grooming. Some Merinos can have longer, curlier hair than others and can look a bit like mini-sheep! Their origin isn’t totally clear, but as with most guinea pigs, they are usually good natured and inquisitive animals. Their curly coat will get matted and full of debris if they are not regularly groomed. Be sure to also trim the hair round their bottoms, to help keep them clean!

| APPEARANCE: Long, curly hair, shorter around the forehead with a crest. Length of curls can vary from average length to long.

| FUN FACTS: It’s no coincidence that this guinea pig is named after a breed of sheep! Its soft, curly coat means it looks like a piggy in sheep’s clothing!

| PERSONALITY: Gentle, good natured and inquisitive.

| HANDLING: Easy to handle, which is good, with all the grooming you’ll be doing!

| GROOMING: Regular grooming is essential with this long and curly hair. Brush every other day (at the very least) to avoid matting and debris. Some trimming may also be necessary, especially around the bottom area,to ensure it stays clean.