Self breed guinea pig (English) – photo and description

The adorable, smooth-coated rodents are becoming a frequent choice for novice guinea pig owners. The official name of the breed is English Self. These animals are distinguished by their affectionate character, unpretentiousness and friendliness to other individuals when living in a group.

Guinea pig Self: origin

Selfies are one of the oldest breeds. Already the official name makes it clear that the first country to start breeding animals is England. For the first time, these animals appeared in the 19th century, but many lovers of small pets liked it, so they were actively engaged in selection and reproduction.

After the breed was popularized outside of Britain, the States tried to appropriate the glory of the creators of this species of rodents. Therefore, in articles and announcements, the name “American self” may appear, although the English guinea pig is meant.

The very first club that brought together lovers of this variety appeared in 1929 in the British Isles. It still exists, has international authority and is engaged in the development and updating of standards for show animals, taking into account the emergence of new colors and subspecies.

The appearance of the breed

The main breed characteristics that the Self breed guinea pig despairs of:

• strict uniformity of color with any yellowish tint and without pronounced brightness;
• wool standards: thick, shiny, smooth, length does not exceed 30 cm;
• hair growth should go along the body, towards the back;
• each hair is colored uniformly – in one color;
• waves and curls are completely excluded;
• compact body of small size;
• profile, called Roman;
• large eyes that have a dark ruby ​​​​or pink tint;
• large ears of an unusual shape, similar to rose petals;
• paw pads and the inner surface of the ears should be golden or pink;
• well-developed muscles;
• large head and powerful shoulders.

The difference in weight between males and females is always significant: the former reach 1,80 kg, the latter rarely exceed a kilogram. The body length of the animal is 30-32 cm. If you look at the pet from above, you can see the resemblance to a brick with smoothed corners.

It is enough for specialists to study the shape of the muzzle of a rodent to determine its gender. For the intended look, the outlines of the head and muzzle differ significantly.

Important! Standard and classic color – chocolate. It is well fixed genetically and is easily passed on to offspring.

The following colors are also allowed by the standards:

• the black;

• white;
• redhead;
• beige;
• cream;
• gold;

• shade of buffalo wool;

• saffron;

• lilac.

In combination with the tone of the coat, according to the standards, the ears and eyes must also have an approved color.

What is special about guinea pigs Self

The main characteristic feature of the breed is slow development and growth. A fully grown mumps becomes 1,5-2 years old. The maximum recorded life expectancy of such a pet is 10 years. On average, with proper care and diet, animals live and delight their owners for 7-8 years.

Representatives of this breed are ideal pets for keeping at home. They are friendly, good-natured and peaceful. This behavior extends to the owner and neighbors in the cage, so selfies can be kept in groups. They practically do not fight, and with an affectionate attitude they quickly make contact, unlike other species that take a long time to adapt to a new place and environment.

It must be borne in mind that representatives of the breed are distinguished by good physical data. They are extremely active and love to run. It is recommended to let them out daily for a walk around the apartment.

This practice, carried out regularly, provides:

• increase your own immune defense;
• prevention of lung diseases;
• reducing the risk of developing heart disease.

Compared to other varieties, pigs of this breed have strong immunity from birth. The main scourge of rodents, infectious diseases, are much less common in them. However, without timely preventive measures and ignoring the rules of care, the owner may face the need for treatment:

• colds;
• allergies of various ethologies;
• diseases of the oral cavity;
• dermatological problems;
• cardiac dysfunctions;
• seizures;
• diseases of the eyes and ears;
• neoplasms of various genesis;
• inflammation of the bladder or lungs.

More serious infections and viral pathologies in representatives of the breed are practically not found.

Breeding

If you want to start breeding rodents in this weather, you should know that these animals are highly prolific.

The duration of pregnancy lasts from 54 to 72 days. Such a spread will depend on whether the female gave birth before, or the first birth is planned. The average number of piglets in a litter is 5.

Facilitates the process of expressiveness of nepotism, which is characteristic of these pets. The maintenance of a large group of individuals makes it possible to observe a particularly touching and careful attitude towards expectant mothers, as well as the creation of collective “kindergartens”. In them, care for the offspring is carried out by all females together.

Acquisition of

The cost of acquiring a pet depends on the cattery and color. If the future owner is interested in buying a valuable individual with an elite pedigree or a rare color, it is recommended to agree in advance with the breeder and reserve the baby. You can pick it up after reaching 1 month.

According to the reviews of experienced owners, these rodents can get along not only with individuals within their own species, but also with other small pets. Relations with dwarf rabbits are especially well built. However, Self should not be taken into the house if a large animal with a tendency to aggression is already kept there.

The nuances of care

Guinea pigs of the English breed Self will make an excellent first pet for a child of primary school age or a novice breeder, although preschoolers are not recommended to be left alone with the animals.

Animals are unpretentious and do not require significant effort and time to ensure their comfort. Features of the care and maintenance of an English pet:

1. The presence of a spacious cage is necessary due to the increased activity of the animal.
2. The dwelling should be equipped with a pallet into which filler is poured to correct natural needs.
3. A ball drinker should be chosen, a feeder and a sennitsa should have a significant weight so that physically developed rodents do not turn them over.
4. A set of accessories for entertainment should be purchased as complete as possible – the animals love to run and play.
5. The cleanliness of the breed ensures ease of toilet training; some owners are limited to just a weekly bedding change.
6. Feeding 2 times a day.
7.  Morning – juicy feed, dry diet should be left for the evening.

Drinking water must be renewed constantly to stay clean. It is recommended to add vitamin C to it: 5-10 mg per 250 ml of liquid.

Subject to these simple rules, a smooth-haired pet will stay with the owner for a long time, maintaining activity, friendliness and contact until old age.

Video: self breed guinea pig