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Should I get two male, two female, or a mixed pair of guinea pigs?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

I want to get 2 guinea pigs. Is it better to have a male and female, 2 males, or 2 females? Or does it matter?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on May 9th, 2019

It is best to have two of the same sex. If you have one of each you are going to end up with LOTS of babies and that is not needed. This article may help you more:

( http://hssv.convio.net/site/DocServer/Guinea_Pig_Pairs.pdf?docID=3209 )

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on November 27th, 2017
There is much evidence that guinea pigs are "happier" and do better in pairs or groups so it's a great idea to get more than one!

If you are getting mature guinea pigs try to get a pair that is already bonded. Be 100% sure of their sex because pet stores frequently mis-sex animals and knowingly or unknowingly sell a pregnant female or a breeding pair.

Getting two males or two females does not matter. One set of sexes is not better than the other. Just don't get one male and one female or you will have a whole bunch of guinea pigs in a short period of time!!

My personal opinion is that temperament-wise, two males are better. Females can get easily agitated once they reach breeding age.

Hope this helps. Best wishes.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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Training & Behavior

Can I keep just one guinea pig, or will it get lonely by itself?

Thank you for submitting your question regarding a potential guinea pig. It is perfectly fine to get one pig if you can give him or her plenty of social interaction. I typically only recommend housing same sex pigs together if they have been raised together. Otherwise pigs of the opposite gender or those who have not been raised together should be housed separately. I think they make great little pets. Enjoy!

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Training & Behavior

Is it okay for two female guinea pigs to live together without a male?

Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Female companionship is sufficient for your guinea pigs. It is arguably better, as more mature guinea pigs (over 6-8 months) are at higher risk for complication during pregnancy and birth.

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How to sex guinea pig babies and separate them to prevent mating?

#1 & #2 look like females. I suspect #3 is female as well, but the area that needs to be seen is tipped downward. You can follow the link below then check #3 and recheck the other 2 for confirmation. http://www.pet-informed-veterinary-advice-online.com/sexing-guinea-pigs.html

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Health & Wellness

What guinea pig gender is healthiest and easiest to care for?

No major differences in my opinion if you want only one. Males can be possibly castrated less invasively (so surgery has less risks), but otherwise it is entirely up to you. Hope this answer was helpful, but please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further.

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

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Why is my female guinea pig squeaking? Happy or scared of new males?

Congrats on all three guinea pigs! Squeaking can be a sign of many things. Here is an article to read regarding happy squeaking: https://www.petcoach.co/article/how-to-know-your-guinea-pig-is-happy/ Here is also a great article about caring for guinea pigs: https://www.petcoach.co/article/the-best-way-to-care-for-and-feed-your-guinea-pig/ If the males get along, you may consider housing them together (do not put males and females together unless you intend to breed and then make sure to do your homework first). Guinea pigs do prefer company (as long as they get along) and if they don't have other guinea pigs to hang out with, the humans must make time every day for interaction. I hope this helps and please feel free to post any additional questions.

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Food & Nutrition

Getting two guinea pigs? What essential supplies and care are needed?

Pet Coach has a couple of great articles on guinea pig care, and I will post them below for you. I hope this helps. https://www.petcoach.co/article/what-you-need-to-know-about-your-new-guinea-pig/ https://www.petcoach.co/article/the-best-way-to-care-for-and-feed-your-guinea-pig/

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

How do I figure out if my baby guinea pigs are boys or girls?

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! At least on these pictures, they both look like males. Keep in mind that it is not that easy to determine this based on a picture. This will be easier to determine when they get a bit older as well. Have a great day!

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

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