Long-haired · Medium-High grooming also called the Sheltie
The Silkie, called the Sheltie outside the US, has long, straight hair that all sweeps back from the face, giving a smooth teardrop shape with no hair growing forward over the eyes.
That backward growth makes the Silkie one of the easier long-hairs to live with: the face stays clear and the coat mats less than a Peruvian's. They are typically gentle and a touch shy, which makes them a lovely, laid-back first long-hair.
Groom two to four times a week and keep the rear 'skirt' trimmed so it stays clean. Many owners keep pet Silkies in a practical trim rather than full show length.
Last updated August 2026 · Written from years of keeping long-haired guinea pigs in the Houston area. This is general care information, not veterinary advice. For anything medical, please see an exotic vet.
