I used to raise the long haired (Peruvian) guinea pigs for show. Funny how they originated in Peru as a short haired food (yes I said food!) animal and short haired version is called the English Short Hair! the Peruvian Long Hair was developed in ENGLAND!!! They also can't store vitamin D. The only animals that can't are guinea pigs, wart hogs, and humans! LOL If they don't get enough vitamin D they can lose the use of their hind legs (reversable with liquid D) and then they will die if not given it. With proper diet it isn't a problem but just be aware of it. I loved mine too and they are just great pets!