Tweed Show Standards

NEW ZEALAND CAVY JUDGES ASSOCIATION

Coat Colouration and the "Tweed" Pattern of a Rare Pedigree Guinea Pig Breed

The absolute defining feature of this unique variety is its distinct, multi-toned coat, which accounts for a substantial 35 points on the official show table:

The Heathered Pattern: The ideal specimen must display a perfectly even intermingling of chocolate and white hairs across the entire body, showcasing either light or dark variations.

Impeccable Uniformity: This distribution must be flawlessly consistent from the shoulders to the hindquarters. Judges will heavily penalise any uneven patching, brindling, or solid blocks of colour that disrupt the mottled effect.

Head Structure & the Distinct Facial Mask

A true show-quality Tweed must possess a powerful, broad head that perfectly frames its unique facial markings, accounting for 15 points of the total score:

Type & Substance: The head must be wide and strong, characterised by a prominent Roman nose, excellent muzzle width, and large, neat, drooping ears shaped like rose petals.
The Chocolate Mask: Adding to the breed's distinct appeal is a localized, self-coloured patch. The nostrils and lips must be solid chocolate, surrounded by a cleanly defined, round chocolate mask.
The Eye Rings: The eyes must be bold, sparkling with life, and perfectly framed by matching, deep chocolate-coloured eye rings.

The Official Breed Blueprint:
The Tweed Show Standard serves as the definitive genetic and physical blueprint for the perfect pedigree Tweed cavy breed. It stands as an official, regulated written document managed exclusively under the rules of the New Zealand Cavy Judges Association (NZCJA).