Training & BehaviorHow to make a skittish guinea pig comfortable with being picked up?
I also have had skittish guinea pigs, so I can relate to your problem! Things that may be helpful are making the experience positive when he comes out - this may include favorite food items. You may also try getting into a routine when you are going to pick Spice up. If he has a pigloo or other hidey house, you can encourage him to go in there every time he is being picked up, and then he won’t be surprised when it happens.
I hope that gives you a place to start, and please let me know if you would like to do a consult where we can speak more about this!
Updated on September 24th, 2025