The terminology between different animals and pets can be confusing. The same can be said for guinea pigs too! If you are looking to reference a group of these rodents then it helps to know what they are called, and be aware of the other key terms. This guide should help!

So, what is a group of guinea pigs called? A group of guinea pigs is called a herd. As social animals, they are commonly found in groups in the wild and your average herd will consist of around 10 guinea pigs of both sows (female) and boars (males). Several groups kept together are called a colony.

And when we say social. We mean it.

In fact, guinea pigs thrive and do best in groups.

Being alone does not do a guinea pig well.

They simply need the companionship of others to avoid a deep level of loneliness and boredom.

In fact, this study even went on to suggest the effects of long term isolation resulting in either early death or the loss of their natural hormonal production.

Clear indicators that isolation is not ideal for these rodents.

This is why is it recommended to own at least two guinea pigs, at the very least. Or if possible a neutered male and one/two females, two females, or two neutered brothers (if they have been raised together).

Let us now take a closer look at the other terminology associated with these rodents. But, before we do let us just look at how many guinea pigs are commonly found in a group (or herd), in the wild.

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How Many Guinea Pigs Is A Herd?

It is generally considered that a group of 5-10 guinea pigs makes a herd.

In the wild, it is common for them to live in close family groups of 10 or more individuals, and then for several groups to come together to form a colony.

Many owners often contemplate whether or not they own a herd, even with 2-4 guinea pigs.

It makes sense given the definition of the term ‘group’:

“A group of people or things is a number of people or things which are together in one place at one time or who have the same interests or aims, and who organize themselves to work or act together.”

Its a fair question, and it likely derives from the term ‘herd’ itself.

If we take a look at the definition of herd, we soon see why:

“A large group of animals of the same type that live and feed together”

‘Large’ being the important word here.

I suppose it then depends on how you define the word ‘large’.

Here’s one to consider:

“Exceeding most other things of like kind especially in quantity or size”

So it is relatively subjective.

But, it makes sense that you’re going to need to own 5 guinea pigs at the very least to ‘own a herd’.

Other Guinea Pigs Terms To Be Aware Of

If you are looking at keeping guinea pigs, or are fortunate enough to do so already, here are some other important terms that may come in useful:

Term	Meaning
Colony	Several groups of Guinea Pigs coming together.
Cavy	A family of rodents native to South America. This includes the guinea pig who is often referred to by this collective name.
Rodent	A small mammal characterized by their teeth; incisors positioned in the upper and lower jaw (and that continuously grow)
Sow	Female Guinea Pig
Boar	Male Guinea Pig
Litter	The collective name for all pups in one pregnancy.
Pup	Baby Guinea Pig
Roan	Bicolored guinea pigs that do not have any patches – the body is one color, with different color hairs evenly mixed throughout the coat.

As fellow rodents, these terms actually overlap quite a bit with the terms used for hamsters.

Read more:
What Is A Female Guinea Pig Called?
What Is A Male Guinea Pig Called?

Finally

So there you have it.

Groups of guinea pigs are called herds, collecting of sows and boars.

Interesting terminology.

And that is how you will likely find them in the wild, and how you should be looking to keep them as pets.

Generally, it is suggested to keep as many guinea pigs as you have space for and can afford to raise.

So long as you have planned accordingly, of course.

Besides, several guinea pigs will stimulate one another and encourage active behavior.

Its better for everyone, honestly.

And are you wondering what groups of other animals are called? If so, my guides below may be of interest:

Jeremy Williams

I am an experienced pet owner with decades of experience owning a number of different pets, from traditional pets like dogs and cats, to the more exotic like reptiles and rodents. I currently own a Cockapoo (pictured) called Bailey. I am also the main writer and chief editor here at Pet Educate; a site dedicated to sharing evidence-based insights and guidance, based on my vast pet ownership knowledge, experience, and extensive research.