The purpose of us all should be
To improve and perfect the small cavy.
Though "Guinea Pig" is the given name,
"Cavy" is right and means the same.
There are many breeds which you should know,
While raising cavies you intend to show.
All breeds differ from one another,
In body, coat and even color.
The ABYSSINIAN'S coat is short and wirey,
Ears slightly drooped, eyes bold and firey.
It's mane and ridges should be well set,
Balanced with at least ten rosettes.
The AMERICAN'S coat is short and sleek,
High crown, firm shoulders - never weak.
A roman nose, rose petal ears,
With large bold eyes, bright and clear.
The CRESTED is what the name implies,
Has the American's type, coat and eyes.
What is needed to have the best-
In the middle of it's forehead, a pure white crest.
The PERUVIAN'S coat is dense, silky and long,
With a cobby body and shoulders strong.
It's broad flat face covered by silky hair.
Front or back - "Who knows where?"
The SILKIE'S coat is dense, long and fine.
A roman nose and eyes that shine.
It's coat grows backwards to the ground,
For not a single rosette is found.
The TEDDY'S coat is a different sort,
Afro like, kinky and short.
With well set ears and a roman nose,
If it's coat is dense, then quality shows.
Chris Wheeler, 1982