Silkie (Sheltie) Guinea Pig illustration

Silkie (Sheltie) Guinea Pig

Origin
United Kingdom
Size
8–12 in (20–30 cm)
Coat
Long, smooth, swept back
Lifespan
5–7 years
Advanced careDocileSweetQuiet

The Silkie, called the Sheltie in the UK, grows a long, smooth coat that sweeps back from the face like a lion's mane in reverse. Unlike the Peruvian, the Silkie has no rosettes and no fringe over the eyes, so the face stays visible and expressive.

Silkies are famously docile, often described as the calmest of the long-haired breeds. They need daily grooming to prevent tangles, so they suit owners who enjoy a quiet grooming ritual as bonding time.

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