Guinea Pig issues...

[Hershey&Spike]

With my two guinea pigs, they don't like to be picked up or pet in any way. Once they're out of the cage they're fine, but inside, they just run away!

Does anyone have any advice on how I can get them to like being pet?

[Wheek Minded]

Actually that is standard guinea pig behavior I'm afraid. They are prey animals and every bone in their bodies is screaming, "GET AWAY" at every single sound and movement. There are ways to get them to fight that urge though, but piggies are never going to be as tame as a horse, or dog. I'm the only person I know of who is even attempting to teach pigs words on purpose. Cavies just aren't domesticated enough, and with current breeding practices of going after color and coat rather than personality these animals are not likely to become easier to tame in the coming generations. They still have the wild in them and the only thing they know, is to run. They don't bite, or have horns or anything for defense, other than to run, and run FAAST.
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I can give you hope though. If you are willing to work hard enough you can often get them to at least ALLOW you to pick them up, and sometimes even to come to you on their own. Pigs respond to food, the same way that horses and other animals do. Once you know what their favorite fresh veggies are, you have something to work with.

Here's a great link that gives extensive advice on taming GP's. I didn't follow it when I first got my pigs because I wasn't patient enough, now after several months I'm finally doing it and finding that the ideas she presents really works.

Taming your Guinea Pig


I always warn my pigs that I'm going to pick them up using an expression. My particular expression is: "Come On...Come On" I am careful to ONLY use those words when I'm going to pick them up. I recently started asking him if he wants a carrot at the same time, since that is the only time he gets one, is when he's on my lap. (carrots aren't good for them and have to be fed in extreme moderation of one baby carrot a day)

I started this about 4 weeks ago, and am just now starting to see results. Each time, I have to warn him I'm coming before he runs away, and tempt him, and be very slow in my attempts.
That's why I say you have to be determined and patient.

Another link that will give you insight into pig behavior:
Guinea Lynx :: Behavior