How to train your guinea pig

A guinea pig is a popular pet choice for kids. They require a child to be responsible about caring for their pet on a manageable level. Learn how to train a guinea pig with basic instructions.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Treats
• Small litter box
• Leash

1. Guinea pigs are actually quite intelligent, so they can pick up on learning how to do certain things, which makes it fun to let them roam around your house and interact with the family on a regular basis. Outlined below are some of the more popular things guinea pigs can be trained to do.
2. You can train your guinea pig to go to the bathroom in a small litter box. Just keep in mind that you can never fully potty train a guinea pig, so don't expect it. Litter training takes patience, too. Start by setting aside one part of its cage as the "bathroom" by placing a small litter box there.
3. Begin by placing some of your pet's waste into the litter box. This will encourage him to follow the scent and go in that one place. When your guinea pig does this successfully, reward him with a small treat. Soon your pet will associate going to the bathroom in the litter box with a treat. Remember to keep adding waste to the litter box after you have cleaned the cage.
4. When your guinea pig is allowed free time on the floor of your home, place the litter box on the floor as well. This will encourage your guinea pig to do his business there. He will not always make it there in time, but sometimes he will, and this will help cut down on the number of accidents he will have on your floor.
5. One of the most popular tricks that you can teach your guinea pig is how to walk on a leash. It's a great way to get them the exercise they need to stay healthy, and gives you the opportunity to show off your pet to others. You can find a leash suitable for your pet at a local pet store. The key to training your guinea pig to walk with a leash is to do it repetitively and use treats. Guinea pigs are not as smart as dogs, so treats will need to be utilized on a more regular basis during training.
6. Start by placing your guinea pig on your lap and placing the leash around his neck. Let him nibble on some fresh vegetables while you are doing this, so he can put the tasty treat together with the leash as a pleasurable experience. Start walking your guinea pig around the house to get him used to the idea. Once you think he is comfortable, take him outside on very short walks around your yard. Chances are your pet will be skittish when outdoors, so it will take time to get him comfortable with a walking routine.

Tips & Warnings

• You can use commercially marketed guinea pig food for treats. You can find these at just about any pet store chain.
• Never pull on the leash too hard. A guinea pig is much more fragile than a dog and can get hurt easily.