Dog & Guinea Pig relationships

[hugoboss]

Hi there. I have recently aquired 2 male guinea pigs who now live in a hutch in my garden. The problem I have is that my sister's dog (border collie) is totally fixated with them. Everytime he comes over to visit, he dashes directly to the cage, and stands transfixed by them. I don't mind that at all, but he often barks at them and pushes his paw against the wire on the cage, so i'm worried he'll frighten the guinea pigs. we have tried introducing them to each other, but the dog doesn't know what to make of them, and shakes a lot and also, worryingly, licks his lips. He is a very kind natured dog, and i just want him to learn that the guineas are friends and not dinner. Any dog experts able to offer any assistance?!

[orange-gnome]

I had a similar experience with my ex bf border collie and a rabbit....exactly the same sort of behaviour from the dog. It went on for ages and finally the dog worked out how to nudge the wooden bit across the door to the hutch to get it open (they really are clever dogs) and the first my ex knew of it, the rabbit went flying past the kitchen window as the dog tossed her into the air....obviously she died.
Post a question on www.orangedog.forumup.com where there are resident dog trainers who I am sure will have some great advice about getting him used to the g.pig...however the dog will never be able to be trusted with them.

[Lizziedrip]

My daughter recently acquired a hamster (Elliott) and my Border Collie (Holly) is absolutely obssessed with him, sits in front of cage in a trance most of the day if given the chance (have to shut door to room). When Elliott is in his ball walking round Holly watches and changes position to get best view, so far she hasn't done anything remotely naughty, well she did nudge ball to see if he could go faster, told daughter not to push her luck as "it's the nature of the beast". So I think advice would be respectful distance at all times. All things are potential dinner.