are guinea pigs shy when you first bring them home?

Answer 1

yup, I got mine a little less than a week ago, and he hates being picked up. I've found if I sit on the floor near him (I let him out of his cage to room around our piggie-proof dining room) he eventually comes over and checks me out, sniffing my hands and not afraid. But if I try to pick him up, he runs for the nearest cover. From what I've read I understand that will change in time, he's just got to get used to the fact that you're not going to hurt him. Try www.cavycages.com for some really good advise about their behavior. Good luck!

Answer 2

Yes, I'll never forget the first guinea pig we were going to buy in the store. The owner was saying how nice they were and they never bit! The pig latched on to his hand and the blood came pouring out.

I once had 30 guinea pigs at once. They are basically a shy animal. I never had one bite me. One of their favorite things was to take them out of the cage and cover them with light paper, like tissue paper or wrapping paper. They like to hide.

Playing with them gradually gets them used to you and they make an ideal small pet.

I could never get any potty trained like I could my rabbits.

Answer 3

That's the rodent instinct. Mine are just over 6 years old and some of them still take off if walk up with out veggies. They all like to be held and petted though. When I walk in with veggies they're all standing there weeking. A couple of them will even stand up on their hind feet. Check out the webs and give your piggie lots of love and care.

Answer 4

Yea, they are at first. Then they warm up and are great pets.
I got mine from a breeder who recommended that I sleep where they can see me. Sleeping for Guinea Pigs is a sign of trust and affection. To them it means you are family. Seriously, it worked for me.

Answer 5

Some can be since they are going into a new environment. Mine was at first but warmed up to our family quickly. :) they make wonderful pets, just make sure you let them out of thier cage frequently so they can get their exercise!

Answer 6

they can be try feeding vegies and you'll be friends in a short amount of time mine used to love vegies and wait till you hear her/him whistle it's sooo cool i had a small kids pool i used to let mine run around in and get exersize have fun

Answer 7

yes, very. they are also very sensitive to noise and stress. try to stay calm around them, and if you have to vaccuum, move them so they will be least disturbed.

Answer 8

Some are timid and some are aggressive.