Do My Guinea Pigs Like Each Other?

[Guineapig lover]

Hi, I have 2 new guinea pigs, Peaches was 4 weeks younger and smaller than Pebbles. However, she is much more confident and adventurous. Pebbles is much more conservative/shy BUT I think she is the quiet, dominant type. Initially Peaches was the boss, but I think Pebbles was having none of it and there were 2 fights on day 3 & 4 (no blood). Things had gone quiet. However, for the last 4 days, probably 3 times a day, when they are hidden from sight. I hear a loud screech sound. I suspect it's Peaches being put in her place. But when I open their den they are sitting next to each other. I've also seen Pebbles nudging Peaches face so she lifts her head. Do u think this will settle down (we are on week 4 of settling in), it upsets my daughter a bit. Thanks for everyone's advice so far - we are new to the world of pets & guinea pigs.

 

[Wiebke]

Hi, I have 2 new guinea pigs, Peaches was 4 weeks younger and smaller than Pebbles. However, she is much more confident and adventurous. Pebbles is much more conservative/shy BUT I think she is the quiet, dominant type. Initially Peaches was the boss, but I think Pebbles was having none of it and there were 2 fights on day 3 & 4 (no blood). Things had gone quiet. However, for the last 4 days, probably 3 times a day, when they are hidden from sight. I hear a loud screech sound. I suspect it's Peaches being put in her place. But when I open their den they are sitting next to each other. I've also seen Pebbles nudging Peaches face so she lifts her head. Do you think this will settle down (we are on week 4 of settling in), it upsets my daughter a bit. Thanks for everyone's advice so far - we are new to the world of pets & guinea pigs.

Hi! This is typical dominance behaviour. The screeching is submission, not pain. it is going to settle eventually once both girls are fine with the state of things and have created a working group.
You may find the information in these two guides here helpful:
Sow Behaviour
https://www.theguineapigforum.co.uk/threads/illustrated-bonding-behaviours-and-dynamics.128361/\

We have got more useful information for new owners in our starter kit, which combines answers to the most often asked questions with some essential need-to-know issues: " Starter Kit" Of Information Threads For New Owners

 

[Guineapig lover]

Thanks, that's a relief. I'm glad they are not physically attacking each other. ! I'll check out the info. Appreciate the advice for a newbie!