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FAQ & All you need to know about getting a pet pig!

How big will my pet pig get? 

All Potbellied Pigs are miniature when compared to their cousin, the farm hog. Hence the name miniature pot bellied pigs. When full grown, a farm hog can exceed 1,000 pounds. Thus it is obvious why Vietnamese pot belly pigs are considered miniature. Also, weight is not always the best way to describe them. Their bodies are very compact and solid. A 100 pound pig can be the size of a small dog that weighs 35-40 pounds.

A full grown potbellied pig can be anywhere from 100 to 250 pounds and not be overweight, and is still considered a miniature pig.The average weight seems to be 120 to 150 pounds but just like humans, pigs do come in various sizes, shapes and weights. With proper feeding and exercise your pig will grow to its predetermined genetic size.

Is it true that if I don't feed my pig a lot they will stay little?

You can affect your pet pig's weight through overfeeding, underfeeding, or a lack of exercise (just like us!). This is not a good idea and could cause serious health problems!!

There are many breeders out there that tell people that potbelly pig's will stay small if you do not feed them a lot. Please, DO NOT FALL FOR THIS SCAM! Underfeeding a pig, or any animal for that matter, will cause serious health problems and deformities.

What is the life expectancy of my pet pig?

On average the life expectancy of a pot belly is about 12-15 years, but is some cases it could even be 18-20 years.

Types of pot belly pigs, and the "Tea Cup Pig".

The most common type of mini pig is the Potbellied Pig (also called Vietnamese Potbellied Pig, Miniature Pot Belly Pig, or Chinese Potbellied Pig). The KuneKune is also a mini pig, but weighs in at around 400 pounds on average and looks more like their cousin the farm pig.

Another breed is the Guinea Hog which is about the size of a large pot, but looks a bit thinner and taller. (I'm not sure of the weight). They look similar to a pot minus the belly and a lot hairier.

As for the so-called Teacup or Micro Mini pig's, these are just normal potbellied pig's that have been chronically underfed and malnourished in an attempt to keep them small. Their life span is maybe FIVE YEARS. This is because the pig stays tiny, BUT THE ORGANS continue to GROW NORMAL SIZE for a normal size pig. Teacups, Micro-Mini's, European Bluebutts, these are all fancy names made up by breeders. All potbellied pigs within the United States come from the same line.

The only reason we have very small, tiny Pot belly pig's is because of unscrupulous breeders inbreeding the pigs, or telling people not to feed them much in order to keep them small. That is animal abuse. Please do not fall for this.

What should be in my pigs diet?

Surprisingly pigs do not eat as much as you would think. They do love to eat though.

There are several companies that make mini pig chow. The most popular feeds are Heartland, Peak Performance, Mazuri by Purina, Nutrina and Manna Pro.

These feeds are designed for pot belly pigs and should always be the mainstay of their diet. Pig chow has what they need in it. It is a complete food made to give them what they need, especially protein that a pig has to have and can't make themselves. The exact serving size is based off of your pet pigs weight, there will be a chart on the side of the pig chow to ensure you are giving the right amount. They should not be given cat/dog chow. Their diets can also be supplemented with fruits and vegitables.

Water, of course, should always be available to you pet.

Treats!

Because pigs LOVE food, treats are a great way to teach them tricks and to reward them for good behavior. You should not give you pig treats without having you pig do something for it. This may lead them to expect a treat all the time and become pushy to get one.

Some excellent treats for you pig are cheerios, grapes, and anything cheese! They love cheese and we have found that cheese puffs are the way to even the most stubborn and shy pigs heart. Remember just like humans if they get to much junk food they will get fat.

Can I keep my pig inside?

While some potbellied pigs enjoy being inside the house, they also require ample outdoor time to root around, relax in the sun and engage in other piggly behavior. Pigs acquire certain critical nutrients from soil, so they must be given an opportunity to be outdoors. You can keep your pig outside during the day and allow him to sleep inside at night. While outdoors, your pig will need to be protected from the elements. Provide your pig with a properly secured yard, a house with bedding (blanket sor straw will do) and with an overhead shelter (above the house) like a tarp or canopy to protect him from the sun, wind and rain. If given a choice, some pigs prefer to live outdoors, so you must be prepared to provide a proper outdoor home.

Indoor Housing

Pot belly pigs are curious and intelligent animals. If your pet pig is going to be a house piggy then you will need to 'pig proof' your house just as you would for a toddler. They will chew on anything and can open just about anything so check those electric cords, 'child proof' those cabinets and your refrigerator, and make sure you check all your furnishings. Pot belly pigs like to rub and/or scratch against anything (like walls and furniture) so be sure anything that can be knocked over is secure. They are much stronger than you think!!

Your pig will need a space he can call all his own. If you have a whole room that he can call his own, great. If not make a spot in the house with your pigs bed, this should be made up of blankets. Pillows can be added too for comfort. Where ever his or her bed is that is their space, and he or she goes to their space, leave them be.

Indoor pig behaviors

An indoor pig pet left all alone all day can get very bored, particularly younger ones less than 5-6 years old. As pigs age they do slow down (just like us). Remember they are curious and also love to root (this is also natural!). In order to amuse himself he may end up rooting up the floor or carpet, chewing on the walls and opening kitchen cupboards. Many have even figured out how to open the refrigerator. Remember, pigs are not only curious, but VERY SMART! If it can be opened, they WILL OPEN IT! This is another good reason why you should have all cleaning supplies, pesticides, etc. out of reach, just like with a child. It is best if your house pig has plenty of outdoor time. Don't worry, since they are so smart it is pretty easy to teach them not to chew on furniture, walls, etc. and most stop this very quickly.If they can get to anything, like your newspaper, purse, books or slippers, it is your fault, not the pig. As smart as they are, you are still smarter than them and must plan ahead to keep your piggy safe and out of trouble. Make sure your pig has plenty toys and thigs to play with so they will stay out of trouble, and things you do not want them to get in.

Outdoor Housing

Outdoor pigs will need a sturdy, weather proof shed or barn. Plenty of straw to keep them warm at night. Blankets are not advised for outside pigs as they can get wet and hold the moisture. Ideally outdoor pigs should be kept in small groups for extra body warmth. They love to snuggle together on cool nights. Another thing most people do not know is: Pigs do not sweat! Actually the only place they 'sweat' is out of the top end of their nose! You will see little tiny droplets of water forming there. To help them keep cool during those hot summer days you will need either a kiddy pool (those cheap plastic ones they sell every spring do fine, but only last about one season) or a nice mud hole. Rolling around in the mud hole cools them off by covering them in cool mud. Plus, caked on mud keeps insects from getting to their skin. You will need to make sure that their area is fenced well. Hog panels or cattle panels seem to work best. The cattle panels are taller (about 4 feet) and harder for stray animals to jump over. Hog panels are about 3 feet tall. These panels are heavy sections of fence. Each section is 16 feet long and made of 1/4" or 3/8" round stiff metal. Most feed stores know what these are. Cedar fencing and chain link will do also. Chain link should be re-enforced with chicken wire along the bottom and sunk about six inches below ground. Make sure there is no place for your pig’s snout or tusk to get stuck or caught. You will want a fence that will keep your pig in and others (stray dogs, coyotes or other critters) out. An outdoor pig will want to root around. This is a natural thing and your pig should be allowed to do this. You may want to fence off a section of your yard for your pig to be a pig. They will root all the way to China in order to get at something they smell below the surface. Their snouts are very powerful. You might also need to fence off any flower beds that you want to keep. If you have a beautiful lawn and you get a pig, well, you should know what you are getting into and take appropriate precautions. They will not root up the whole lawn, but sure can root up sections!

Toys!

Pigs LOVE toys, especially any toy that has food inside of it.

You could go all out and buy some Kong toys that are virtually indestructible that have a hallow center that you could put peanut butter or some other treat inside. Or you could try some homemade toys that we have come up with. Save your milk jugs and soda bottles rinse and dry them completely and with the lid off put some cheerios inside. Your pig will roll them around to get the treats inside for hours. What works for us is using multiple bottles/jugs and only filling some this way they will search all of the jugs for the treats and it will keep them busy for a long time. Another great idea is a rooting box. It is 2' x 2' square wooden box filled with smooth round river rocks about the size of your fist. You don't want any rocks smaller as they might inhale them while rooting around. Place some treats inside and watch your pet root for them. Also some pigs like to push around balls, and larger toy cars.

Signs that your pig is sick.

  • The first sign of a sick pig is his loss of appetite. If he does not eat like a pig then something may be wrong. A sick pig also looks sick and will not act normal. Know your pig and his routine.

  • His hair will stand on end like he is cold or when you give your pig a belly rub.

  • If, when standing, his back is hunched and his hind legs are under his body, that is a sick pig.

  • Remember, any change in behavior that is unusual could be a sign that something is wrong.

  • In any of these cases make sure you take his temperature to find out if he is running a temperature and then call your vet. The faster you act the better

Pig maintenance

The maintenance of a pig is pretty simple. For most indoor pigs they will need to have the hooves clipped or filed down. Their tusks can be filed down if that is what you prefer but it is not necessary.  About once a year they will need to get ivermectin shot or cream for worming.

Bringing your pig home.

Your pig should be brought home in a pet carrier or sky kennel. This is safest for him and you. Please don't carry the pig in your lap. Some newspaper or towels on the bottom of the carrier so it isn't so slippery. Pigs are known for pooping once inside a moving vehicle. We work with your pet to make sure that he or she won't be scared when put in the carrier and has been socialized. A pig should feel safe in their carrier. Once you are home put the carrier in the piggy motel that you have made (your pig’s safe space). There you can open it up and let your pig out to explore his new home. Remember your pig is in a state of shock. He didn't ask to be uprooted from the only home he has ever known and moved to a new place. Since pigs don't have decent eyesight he will check out his new digs by rooting around. A few soft toys along with the blankets is a good idea

Building Trust and bonding

While your new pig has been with us he or she would have been socialized, but they still need to bond with you and learn to trust you. This is something that CANNOT be rushed. Teaching trust takes time. Don't invade your pig’s space. Let him or her come to you and explore you. This can be easily doneby just sitting on the floor with your pig. When he or she is ready he or she will come to you and check out. Remember to move slowly with your pig. Quick movement can scare them (again they have poor eyesight so quick movements will scare them). Another good point is to bring treats with you. Remember the power of a cheese puff! Pigs hate being picked up as this just isn't natural for them like it is with cat or dog. Please, avoid picking up your pig unless it is absolutely necessary. By the way, wherever your pigs sleeping area is, that is his area! Do not bother your pig there. It is his sanctuary.

Basic Training

Before you start any training, be sure you and your pig have been 'socialized' and he is now beginning to trust you. This may take a few days or weeks, but trying to train him before he is comfortable, relaxed and trusts you is a waste of time and will set you back quite a bit.

Learn your pig and know what he is capable of. Come down to their way of thinking. They only understand black and white, so no gray areas in training. Teach with words. Keep them short, to the point and be clear when you speak. (Come or Come Here, not Come On) Put a word to whatever you want your pig to do or learn. Make sure each word sounds distinct to him.

Some trainers believe that the only time a treat should be given is when a trick is performed. Even if it is only "Sit". When starting training, treats are a must, but don't forget to use the tone of your voice too. You will then move on to praise with touch as a reward. Don't treat all the time. NEVER force your pig to do something that he doesn't want to. If you do you pretty much guarantee that he will NEVER do whatever it is you are trying.

When disciplining your pig keep it short and sweet. Be firm with your voice, but do not yell. They won't understand. Also, NEVER HIT YOUR PIG. This is not just an animal lovers request. Hitting your pig will encourage bad behavior and will guarantee the pig will never do what it is you are trying to teach him.

Unfortunately most of a pigs bad habits are the fault of the owner. You can end up with a snapper if you give treats from above. If you have a snapper or biter, stop giving them treats. Slowly start retraining by treating from the ground, or rather at their level. Put the treat between your fingers palm up and lay the back of your hand on the ground. This teaches them to use their lips not their teeth.

Remember: Above all take your time and do not rush. If your pig gets tired after 5 minutes of training then only do it for 3 minutes. We don't want the pig to fail. In the end you will be surprised how quickly they learn and how quickly they become a member of your family.

Can you take a pig for a walk and play fetch?

A pig can easily be trained to walk on a leash and harness and to ride in a car. Yes, you can take a pig for a walk, but unlike a dog, piggy will take his own sweet time checking out every gum-wrapper and leaf on the pavement. While you can teach a pig to retrieve an object, a pig will only cooperate if amply rewarded with treats. A pig does not retrieve for the joy of it.

Do pigs bite?

That’s like asking if dogs or cats bite. If given a reason, sure they do. While pigs are generally gentle by nature, they are also territorial and emotional. A pig can become aggressive when competing for food or attention. As with a dog, it is important to teach him good manners and let him know who is “top hog” in the family.

Are pigs affectionate?

A pig is not going to jump up and lick you in the face. Their affections are expressed more subtlety. Pigs love to be scratched, rubbed and massaged. Most pigs don’t like to be picked up, but will gladly lie with you and enjoy a long cuddle. Pigs appreciate and seek out human company.

What happens if I get a pig and later decide that I don’t want him?

Pigs become attached to their human families very quickly, and are easily depressed when separated. Do your homework first and make sure a pet pig is really right for you and every member of your family. When you get your piggy and later decide that you do not want your piggy contact us immediately. The pig must come back to the Pig Pen Inc due to fact that some people will misrepresent the pig, or they will send them to a shelter, which usually quickly out the pig down, and future sales of the adopted pig MUST be approved through Pig Pen Inc, as to make sure of the safety and wellbeing of the pig.   

What is the zoning laws regarding pigs as pets?

Each city and county has its own zoning codes about pet pigs. Many cities prohibit farm animals, including swine. Many have revised their codes to allow potbellied pig because miniature pigs are considered companion animals. Before getting a pig, check with your city, county and homeowners association to determine the exact code. Get the code in writing!

Is there such thing as a Teacup or Micro-mini Potbelly Pig?

Though breeders and pet shops might claim they have micro-mini pigs, far too frequently, such pigs have stunted growth due to under-feeding and poor nutrition. Rarely do we see a pig that remains under 50 pounds at maturity unless it has health problems that are often a result of inbreeding. Starving a pig to keep it small is no different than starving a human child to keep it small. It’s cruel and it doesn’t work.

Can I keep a pet pig in an apartment?

We recommend against keeping pet pigs in apartments, condos or rentals. Pigs need ample outdoor space, which cannot be provided in an apartment or condo. Renters are too often at the mercy of their landlord and cannot provide a stable home for a pig. Even if a landlord approves a pig as a tenant, frequently, a renter will move and be unable to find another rental that allows pigs.

How do I ‘piggy proof’ my house?

As you would do for any pet, make sure that household cleaning products, insecticides, medicines, lighter fluid and other toxins are out of reach. Remove plants that could harm your pig. Take potted indoor plants off the floor and don’t leave handbags within reach. Pigs love lipstick and chewing gum! They are very cleaver with their snouts and particularly industrious when they smell food. If needed, secure your cabinets with childproof locks. Avoid feeding your pig out of the refrigerator. If your pig learns to open the fridge door, you might have to install a latch. Tape up computer, telephone and electrical wires where possible. We recommend that pigs be kept away from open swimming pools

Will my pig get along with my dogs and cats?

Pigs and cats frequently become fast friends and bedmates. Dogs, however, are another story. We recommend that you separate your pig from your dogs. While your small dog may eventually get along with your piggy, they must always be closely supervised. As tame as your dog may be, keep in mind that dogs are natural predators of pigs and can turn on pig even years after living together. A dog can easily kill a pig. Don’t leave your pig and dog unattended.

Where do pigs sleep?

Many people provide doghouses or a shed for their pigs to sleep in outdoors. Indoors they should have their own cozy bed filled with bedding; a large crate, dogloo or a children’s play tent are all good. Pigs living indoors need comfortable soft bedding. Dog beds and blankets work well. Outdoor houses can be packed with straw or hay. Of course, piggy will love to sleep on the bed with you. Unless you don’t mind this being an every night occurrence, don’t get him started!

Will my pig wallow in the mud?

Pigs do not have sweat glands, so they will attempt to cool down by rolling in mud or water. While piggy will be delighted by a wallow, they are not necessary. Provide your pig with a plastic wading pool filled with water or even keep your pig indoors in air-conditioning on hot days. Simple, inexpensive misting systems can also be easily rigged for outdoor pigs.

Pigs are smart!

Pigs are smart and fun pets. They can be litter boxed trained and also trained to go outside. They make get service animals. They are also very clean animals and make great pets for people with allergies.

I want to get a pet pig for my child, is that a good idea?

Well, that all depends on the age and maturity of the child. If you are getting a pig for a teenager, ask yourself if you are prepared to take care of the pig when your child gets busy with high school activities. Who will take care of the pig when your child leaves for college? We recommend against getting a pig for young children. A pig has a very keen sense of smell and will be attracted to food odors on a child’s hand. It is hard for some pigs to differentiate between food and fingers, unfortunately. It is dangerous to leave a young child unsupervised with a pig or any animal. Children of any age are frequently intrigued with the idea of getting a pet pig, but quickly the responsibility of daily care falls in the hands of parents. Are you prepared for that?

Can my pig be potty trained?

Yes! A potbellied pig can be housebroken faster than most dogs. When pigs come to us we teach them to use a litter box from day one. If you continue to teach your pig good habits from day one, your pig will not have “accidents” in the house. You can start your pig in a litter box and then teach them to go outside. Young piglets need to urinate every hour or two. Mature pigs can hold it longer.

Should a potbellied pig be spayed or neutered?

Male pigs should be neutered as soon as possible. Boars (uncastrated pigs) give off a pungent, musky odor that will stick to your clothing and furniture. They display sexual behavior at a very early age and can become quite difficult to handle if left intact. Neutering a male will also retard the growth of his tusks. Females should be spayed as soon as possible, preferably before they come into season. If left unspayed, females frequently have uterine problems, such as tumors and infections. Find a qualified potbellied pig veterinarian to perform the procedure and insist that only isoflurane gas be used for anesthesia. Injectible drugs such as ketamine and cocktails used on dogs can result in serious problems, even death. The older and larger your pig gets, the more anesthesias your pig will require and the more dangerous it becomes. Get your pig neutered and spayed as early as possible!

What type of health problems do pigs have?

Given proper care, most pigs have few health problems. However, there are several serious problems that occasionally arise. Pigs can become easily constipated, leading to impacted bowels, a life-threatening condition. It is important that you provide your pigs with a high-fiber diet and plenty of fresh water. Male pigs can also have serious urinary tract problems, which can be costly to repair. Keeping your pig well hydrated can also prevent these problems. The biggest health problem in potbellied pigs, unfortunately, is a condition caused by their human caregivers. Obesity is the number one cause of health complications and death in potbellied pigs. Morbidly obese pigs can become blind from fatty skin folds that obstruct their vision. Obese pigs will inevitably have crippling joint problems and sometimes have respiratory problems, both conditions leading to immobility and death. Don’t let your pig get fat!

Do potbellied pigs come in different colors?

Potbellied pigs come in a variety of colors including black, white, red/brown and pinto. Most potbellied pigs are black with white markings. White pigs are hardest to maintain because they sunburn easily and easily show dirt. They are also prone to drippy eyes.

Do potbellied pigs shed?

Yes and no. Pigs do not shed the way dogs shed. Most pigs will “blow” their coats once or twice a year. They will lose all their hair in the summer months and it will reappear by winter.

Should I get a male or female pig?

Once a male pig has been castrated and a female has been spayed, there is very little difference between the two. It is all a matter of personal preference.

I’ve heard that two pigs are better than one. Is that true?

Through our many adoptions, we find that pigs do better in pairs or small groups. While a single pig can make a fine companion, when they reach maturity they can sometimes start to exhibit undesirable behavior. This rarely happens in a two-pig household. Pigs, being herd animals, seem to do better when they have another pig around. Most people with two pigs report that it is easier to keep two than one. We recommend getting accustomed to your first pig then adopting a second one a short time later. We can help you find the right companion for your pig as well as help you introducing two pigs together

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