My guinea pig runs away when I reach in — how do I build trust?

Short answer: guinea pigs are prey animals and naturally wary. Routine, a low posture and food associations build trust over weeks to months.

1. Settling-in time — keep the first few days quiet and provide a hide.

2. Routine — serve vegetables and fresh hay at the same time each day.

3. Get low — approach from the side and speak softly; avoid reaching down from above.

4. Hand feeding — rest a small leaf on your palm and let them come to you.

5. Short sessions — start with gentle strokes on the forehead or back for a few minutes; let them leave when they want.

6. Read the mood — a relaxed purr is good; teeth chattering means pause.

👉 Watch the video: https://youtu.be/wi2VWUOTi4Q