The Rare Imported Pedigree Breed
The Dark Eyed White, often affectionately called the "DE White," is a pedigree breed that holds a rare status in New Zealand. Unlike local successes like the Tweed or Panda, the Dark Eyed White is an imported rare breed.
The NZ Unique and Rare Guinea Pigs club began officially advocating for this breed in 2018 after exhibitors expressed concern over its dwindling numbers and uncertain future in the country. Today, it is supported as a high-priority rare breed to ensure its preservation for future generations of fanciers.
Appearance and Show Standards
A true pedigree Dark Eyed White is defined by its striking contrast: a pure, snow-white coat paired with large, dark eyes that often carry a subtle "ruby" hint. To meet Show Standards, the coat must be short, smooth, and lustrous with a glossy sheen that remains even across the head, body, and feet. Physically, they should exhibit a "cobby" (short and stocky) body type with a broad "roman nose," wide shoulders, and large, drooping ears shaped like rose petals.
Varieties and Genetics
While most commonly seen in the "Self" (smooth-haired) variety, the breed also exists in Satin and Crested forms. The Satin variety is particularly notable for its high-gloss, shimmering coat caused by light-reflecting hollow hair shafts. Genetically, the DEW is distinct from the more common Pink Eyed White (PEW); while the PEW is the closest the cavy comes to albinism, the DEW's dark eyes and specific pigment markers separate it as a standard breed in its own right.
Key Differences: DEW vs. Panda
Origin: The Dark Eyed White is an imported rare breed first supported by the club in 2018, whereas the Panda is a New Zealand unique breed created over 30 years ago by cavy judge Christa Krey.
Skin Pigmentation: The most significant difference is the skin. A Panda must have exposed skin that is as black as possible, specifically on the ears, mouth, nostrils, and foot pads. In contrast, the DEW features flesh-toned skin with a pure snow-white coat.
Eye Colour: While both have dark eyes, the DEW’s eyes are described as large and dark with a characteristic "hint of ruby." The Panda has bold, black-rimmed eyes that contrast sharply against its white facial fur.
Genetics: The Panda is genetically a Silver Agouti (but without the black hair present), making its only viable outcross a Silver Agouti or a Silver Agouti dilute. The DEW’s colour is a result of a specific dilution on the C genes, which is separate from the genetics of the Panda or the common Pink Eyed White.
Physical Variety: Both breeds are found in Self (smooth coat) and Satin varieties, but the DEW is also commonly recognised in a Crested form within the rare breed standard.
