Did you know that Guinea pigs can learn some adorable tricks? Guinea pigs, also known as cavies, are quite smart! With time, patience, and consistency, you can show your charming little furball some super cute commands. Below, a Lafayette, LA veterinarian discusses five fun tricks you can teach your Guinea pig.
Come When Called
This is one of the easiest tricks to teach your Guinea pig. Before you start training your furry pal, make sure he is settled into his home and is comfortable with you. When you think your cavy is ready to start learning, hold out a treat and call him by name. You can start this trick while he’s still in his cage, and then move it outside the cage down the road.
Turn in Circles
To teach your Guinea pig to turn circles, hold a treat out in front of him. Once you have your little buddy’s attention, move your hand in a circle. Your furball will probably follow the treat. If he goes in a circle, tell him to ‘Turn Circles’ and then hand over the snack. When you think your furry friend has this down, start giving him the vocal command before you hold out the snack.
Stand Up
Hold a treat above your tiny furball’s head, just high enough so that he has to stand up to get that yummy snack. When your pet stands on his back legs, tell him to ‘Stand Up’ and then give him his reward. Just be sure not to do this too many times, and don’t keep your cavy standing too long.
Jump Through Hoops
Start out by holding the hoop on the floor with one hand. With your other hand, hold out a delicious treat, positioning it so that your furry little pal has to go through the hoop to get his snack. When your little buddy moves through the hoop, say ‘Jump’ and give him his yummy prize.
Go Home
To teach your cavy to return to his cage, just toss some yummy snacks into his home. Make sure he sees you do this! Then, tell your tiny furball to go home. Keep doing this until your pet goes into his cage on command.
Do you have any questions or concerns about your cavy’s health or care? Please call us, your Lafayette, LA veterinary clinic, anytime.
