How to Make Your Guinea Pig Less Shy

Last Updated: January 13, 2023 References

Guinea pigs can make excellent pets with fun and unique personalities, but you might also know that they can be very shy creatures. As prey animals, guinea pigs are prone to acting shy and nervous even in safe environments. Some especially timid guinea pigs might seem impossible to bond with, but if you know how to socialize your guinea pig and make them comfortable you can help your furry friend come out of their shell.

Steps

1
Give your guinea pig personal space. If you're constantly reaching in their enclosure and grabbing at them, your guinea pig won't be able to relax around you. Don't chase or corner your guinea pig and don't try to remove their shelter if they're hiding.^{[1]
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Research source} Unless it's an emergency, there's no need to force your guinea pig out of a hiding spot.
2
Keep a pair of guinea pigs. If you only have one guinea pig, getting them a companion might be just what they need to open up. Guinea pigs are very social animals and can become withdrawn and anxious if kept alone.^{[2]
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Research source} A second guinea pig to keep them company might give your shy guinea pig the confidence to trust you more.

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3
Spend time with your guinea pig on a regular basis. Simply spending more time around your guinea pig can help them adjust to your presence and relax. Talk to them calmly so they can get used to your voice. Try to limit any loud noises or sudden movements to avoid startling a timid guinea pig. Keep your visits predictable and consistent. Having a routine can help your guinea pig trust you faster if they know what to expect from you.^{[3]
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4
Offer them food by hand. Guinea pigs love to eat and can be easily won over with food. Start with large snacks, like a leaf of lettuce or a long piece of carrot, so they can nibble without needing to get too close. Be patient and don't be too forceful with them. Try gradually smaller treats as your guinea pig becomes more comfortable with you. See if you can get them to take a treat from the palm of your hand.^{[4]
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- Feed them at regular intervals so they begin to associate you with food. Space out these hand-feeding sessions to avoid overfeeding your guinea pig.
5
Spend time with them out of their cage. Allow your guinea pig time to explore in a pen or other guinea pig safe area. Sit or lay down with them quietly and try to avoid moving too much. Read a book or use your phone to pass the time. Let your guinea pig approach you if they feel comfortable and don't try to pet or pick them up. Just let them sniff you or maybe even climb on you if they're feeling especially adventurous.
6
Try picking up your guinea pig. If your guinea pig seems to be getting more comfortable with your presence, you can try holding them for a bit. Pick up your guinea pig by placing a hand under their belly and the other under their bottom. Make sure their back end is supported and hold them close to you.^{[5]
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Research source} Keep a secure, but not uncomfortable, grip on them so they don't fall if they suddenly start squirming.
- Do this sitting down or close to the floor at first. Being closer to the ground will keep your guinea pig more comfortable, while being held high in the air might make them anxious. This also lessens the chance of injury if your guinea pig falls or escapes.
7
Hold your guinea pig once every day. Once your guinea pig trusts you enough to handle them regularly, make a habit of holding your guinea pig every day. If you hold your guinea pig every day, they will eventually become more used to you. You could even offer him treats like carrot or apple slices so they will look forward to some cuddle time.
8
Let others hold and pet your guinea pig. Introduce your guinea pig to trusted friends or family members. Make sure the person who is holding your guinea pig knows how to hold them properly. If the guinea pig feels like it's going to fall, it's only going to be more scared.

Community Q&A

Question

My guinea pig is really shy and she won't come out of hiding -- what can I do?

Community Answer

Food usually works well - a special treat that he/she loves. Once the pig is happy to come out and take it, then ask for a touch before the pig gets the treat. It takes time, so speak in a calm and soft voice.