Baldwin Guinea Pig

Coat and looks how to spot one

hairless (born furred)

Baldwins arrive with a full coat, then start to lose it from the nose backward within the first few days and are almost completely bare by about two months, keeping only whiskers and a little hair on the feet. The smooth skin can carry the same colour patterns as furred guinea pigs, such as tortoiseshell, Himalayan or Dutch markings.123

Personality what they are like

Described as cuddly, chatty and playful, a sociable and bright guinea pig that is usually calm when handled and loves company from both people and other guinea pigs.2

Daily activity how busy a day looks

Guinea pigs are busy animals that can be on the go for up to 20 hours a day, napping in short spells. Offer daily time in a larger, safe run or room with tunnels, hides and things to explore. Contented guinea pigs often leap and twist in the air, a habit owners call 'popcorning'.54

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

No brushing needed. Keep Baldwins indoors in a warm, draught-free room out of direct sun, ideally around 24-26 C, and give them soft nesting material such as fleece, a blanket or a snug house to curl up in. They use more energy to stay warm, so they eat more than furred guinea pigs.123

Home where they are happiest

Indoors only, in a roomy enclosure in a warm, draught-free room away from direct sun (about 24-26 C suits them), with solid floors, soft bedding and plenty of fleece or snug hides to nest in. Spot-clean daily and do a full clean at least weekly.127

Food basics what goes in the bowl

Good-quality hay available at all times should make up most of the diet, plus fresh grass where possible. Add a daily portion of grass-based guinea pig pellets and a daily mix of fresh vegetables and herbs such as parsley, bell pepper, celery, cucumber and romaine. Guinea pigs cannot make their own vitamin C, so it has to come from food every day. Fruit only as an occasional small treat, and fresh water always available. Hairless guinea pigs need a bit more food than furred ones to keep warm.8541

Company who they like around

Very sociable: guinea pigs should live with at least one other friendly guinea pig and do best in pairs or small groups.57

The story where it all began

Guinea pigs were domesticated in the Andes of South America and reached Europe with traders in the 1500s, where they became popular pets. The Baldwin appeared in the United States when hairless pups were born to White Crested parents in Carol Miller's California show line. Test breeding showed that the hairlessness is recessive, so two Baldwins produce only hairless young. It remains an uncommon type that is gaining fans for its unusual look.412

Recognised by the official bits

American Cavy Breeders Association / ARBA

Not a recognised show breed; a hairless type still fairly new to keepers and cavy fanciers.1