Guinea pigs, also known as caveys, originate from the Andres in South America where they grazed on grassy plains, and despite their name are rodents. They were first domesticated for food and fed household scraps and were important in traditional healing rituals for diagnosis, religious ceremonies as well as given as gifts.
They have enjoyed status in western Europe as a household pet since their introduction from traders in the 16th Century where they were kept as exotic pets by the upperclass including Queen Elizabeth I. Due to their docile nature and responsiveness to handling and feeding they were used for experimentation since the 19th Century giving the rise to the expression 'being a guinea pig'. They have now largely been superseded by rats and mice.
It's unknown as to exactly why they are called Guinea pigs but there are a few theories. Traders may have brought the animals into western Europe through Guinea, or 'Guinea' may be a corruption of the word 'Guiana' an area of South America although guinea pigs not being from that region. The English at the time also used 'Guinea' as a term for far away land, and perhaps the 'Pig' part maybe due to the noises they make
The Sheltie was first bred in the UK in the 1970s by breeding Peruvian breed guinea pigs with Self smooth blacks and was recognised as a breed in 1973.
They are known for their soft, shiny long hair that sweeps back away from the face and down the body.
They differ from the Peruvian by having less dense, long fur that falls in a different pattern that doesn't naturally part in the centre. As well as this their face is not covered by a fringe. From above their hair resembles a 'teardrop' shape. Their fur can be any colour for showing with the exception of tan.
It is important that this breed of guinea pig gets used to brushing and cleaning as this is integral for the care of their coat and makes this a more high maintenance breed. The fur needs to be trimmed; especially at the rear to prevent matting. 'Barbering' can be an issue if kept in groups as they may chew other's fur so give plenty of hay to keep occupied.
As well as for their appearance they are known for being laid back and gentle animals.
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