Guide Standard
Guide Standard classification is applied to recognised or developing cavy breeds that are not currently supported by an active, affiliated breed club within the framework of the British Cavy Council.
Within the British cavy fancy, breed clubs play a central role in refining standards, promoting consistency, and guiding both exhibitors and judges. Where no such club is in operation, a breed may be placed under a “Guide Standard” designation. This indicates that, while a provisional or advisory standard exists, it may not yet be fully stabilised or actively maintained by a dedicated specialist body.
Under this classification:
In summary, the “Guide Standard” designation reflects a breed that is recognised within the structure of the British Cavy Council, but which does not currently benefit from active breed club oversight. It serves as a framework to support ongoing development, with the potential for progression to full standard status once sufficient organisation and consensus are achieved.
Guide Standard classification is applied to recognised or developing cavy breeds that are not currently supported by an active, affiliated breed club within the framework of the British Cavy Council.
Within the British cavy fancy, breed clubs play a central role in refining standards, promoting consistency, and guiding both exhibitors and judges. Where no such club is in operation, a breed may be placed under a “Guide Standard” designation. This indicates that, while a provisional or advisory standard exists, it may not yet be fully stabilised or actively maintained by a dedicated specialist body.
Under this classification:
- A published guide or provisional standard is available to outline the desired characteristics of the breed.
- The breed is typically considered to be in a developmental or transitional stage.
- Judging is carried out with reference to the guide standard, allowing for a degree of interpretation where the standard may not be as firmly established as in fully supported breeds.
- Exhibitors may show cavies in these classes, but the emphasis is often on encouraging development, consistency, and wider participation, rather than strict adherence to a long-established ideal.
In summary, the “Guide Standard” designation reflects a breed that is recognised within the structure of the British Cavy Council, but which does not currently benefit from active breed club oversight. It serves as a framework to support ongoing development, with the potential for progression to full standard status once sufficient organisation and consensus are achieved.
Guide Standard Breeds
Click photos to view the cavies' breed standards
