PET PIGS: A Complete Guide to Raising, Caring, and Enjoying the Companion of Pet Pigs

 PET PIGS: A Complete Guide to Raising, Caring, and Enjoying the Companion of Pet Pigs

Pigs are among the oldest forms of domesticated animals, and have been raised for meat and other products for thousands of years. However, in the last few years, pigs have also become increasingly popular as pets. With their smart little minds, sociable characters, and unique personalities, you'll want to have one as an addition to your family. This all-inclusive guide features everything from selecting a breed to the routine care, training,  and showing of pet pigs.

 

History of Pet Pigs

Pigs were first domesticated about 9,000 years ago in the Near East and China. Pigs were initially used just for meat, fat, and other by-products. They eventually evolved and became a part of diverse cultures around the world.

 

Transition to Pets

In the second half of the 20th century, pet pigs started to become fashionable, particularly with the arrival of mini breeds such as the Vietnamese pot-bellied pig. In SCW, these short-legged pigs, which, for their small size and friendly appearance, found a new niche in the pet market.

 

Choosing a Pet Pig

Breeds of Pet Pigs

Several pig breeds are good as pets. They each have features that will suit different kinds of pet parents.

Vietnamese Pot-Bellied Pig

Size: Small to mid-size, weighing on average 100-200 pounds. Distinctive pot-bellied look,  small snout, and straight ears.

Personality: Smart, she\'s social and curious. They may be obstinate, but are usually affectionate and, given the opportunity, develop a close relationship with their people.

Miniature Pig (Mini Pig)

Features: Several breeds are classified as miniature pigs, such as the Juliana Pig and the Göttingen minipig. They generally weigh 50 to 150 pounds.

Personality: Very intelligent, trainable,  social. They are sociable birds and can be trained to do tricks and tasks.

KuneKune Pig

Traits: Short, pug-like body; body in a variety of coat colors and patterns. Generally, poses are between 100 and 250 lbs.

Temperament: Friendly, relaxed,  and easy to handle. They are good foragers and love to be outside.

Things to consider when choosing a pet pig

Space: Think about how much room you have in your home and yard. Some pigs breed will be enormous, despite being classified as miniature breeds.

Personalities: Pigs are individuals. Some may be more social and interactive than others; some may be more independent.

Length of life: Pigs live roughly 15-20 years. When you get a pig, you have them for a long time.

Local Laws: Consult local ordinances, as some towns or cities may have laws prohibiting pigs as pets.

Preparing for a Pet Pig

Housing and Environment

Pigs require specific living conditions to maintain their health.

Indoor Housing

Space: A hog needs room to be able to walk around. A specific place with bedding and toys is a must.

Flooring: Install non-slip flooring for safety. Pigs may have problems with their joints on hard surfaces.

Pigs and Temperature: Pigs are susceptible to really hot or cold weather. Keep the living area warm in the cool months and cool in the hot months.

Outdoor Housing

Shelter: Offer a secure, weatherproof shelter with bedding. Make sure the hut is big enough for the pig to turn around and lie down.

Fences: Employ secure fencing to avoid breakouts. Pigs are very powerful and will root under or push through weak fences.

Enrich: Provide a rooting/foraging area. Pigs are naturally curious and like to root around and dig, so these pigs can keep active and mentally stimulated!

 

Diet and Nutrition

The right nutrition is very important for a pig's health.

Balanced Diet

Commercial Pig Feed: Select the best commercial feed available for pet pigs. These feeds have all the vitamins, minerals, and nutrients you need.

Fruits and Vegetables: Fresh fruits and vegetables are good to add to their diet. Do not feed toxic people foods, like onions, chocolate, and avocados.

Treats: Offer treats such as small pieces of fruit or vegetables for training and enrichment. Don't overfeed to avoid obesity.

Feeding Practices

Feeding Schedule: No fluctuation in feeding time is needed, your pets remain an ideal weight, and keep a routine.

Fresh Water: Provide your hamster with an abundance of clean water. Pigs dehydrate quickly,  especially in hot weather.

 

Health Care

Routine veterinary care is necessary to keep your pig healthy.

Finding a Veterinarian

Specialized Treatment: Look for a pig-experienced vet. It’s also important to get regular check-ups and vaccinations.

Emergency Medical Care: Assume you will need access to emergency veterinary care. Be familiar with the nearest pig-friendly animal hospital.

Common Health Issues

Overweight: Keep your pig on all of your pig as needed. The health risks associated with being overweight are well documented.

Skin Problems: Dry skin is common among pigs, as well as sunburn. If required, apply pig-safe sunscreen and provide shade.

Hoof Trimming: Keep hooves trimmed to avoid overgrowth, which can lead to foot and leg problems.

 

Training and Socialization

Basic Training

Pigs are very intelligent and can be taught with the aid of positive reinforcement.

House Training

Consistency: Use consistent commands and corresponding routines. Pigs can even be trained to use a litter box,  just as cats are.

Patience: Be patient and reward your pig when they have successful bathroom trips. Such things are going to happen, especially at first.

Obedience Training

Basic Commands: Train in basic commands such as “sit,” “come,” and “stay.” Pick them up and treat them as appropriate with treats and praise.

Leash Training: Begin leash training as soon as possible. Harness, train, and practice in a secure,  confined area.

Socialization

Pigs are social creatures and must have contact with humans and or other animals.

Human Interaction

Quality Time: Make sure to have some time every day when you interact with your pig. Petting, grooming, and play are integral to building a close relationship.

Rewarded behaviors will be repeated, while unwanted behaviors will be discouraged when rewards can be offered or withheld.

Behavior Towards Other Animals

Monitor: Monitor your pets during the first encounter.

Compatibility: Certain pigs can be good with other dogs or cats, while others will become territorial. Keep an eye on their reaction and separate them where necessary.

Engage and Challenge Their Minds

Pigs are smart animals who require mental stimulation to avoid boredom, which can lead to destructive behavior.

Toys and Activities

Plant Boxes: Establish plant boxes full of straw, soil, or sand. Treats can be wrapped for their two Mapping hikes, which are especially fun for dogs.

Puzzle feeders: Puzzle feeders are a fantastic way to challenge your pig and make their mealtime more interesting.

Active Play: Offer interactive toys that promote exploration and play. Keep it interesting and rotate their toys often.

Outdoor Activities

Foraging: Let your pig forage in a protected area outside. This is an instinctive activity that is also mentally and physically stimulating.

Exercise: Make sure your pig has regular exercise to maintain a healthy weight and avoid boredom.

 

Legal and moral aspects

Legal Requirements

Before acquiring a pet pig, obtaining local regulations and zoning restrictions.

Zoning Laws

Permits: In some places, you even need to obtain a permit to keep pigs as pets. Verify with local authorities about the adherence to the same.

Zoning: Some areas or HOA communities could have zoning that prohibits the keeping of livestock like pigs.

Ethical Considerations

If you want to keep and care for pet pigs, you have to accept corresponding ethical responsibilities.

Commitment

Long-life care: Pigs can live to be 15- 20 years old. Be sure you are ready for the lifetime commitment, which is involved in owning a pig as a pet!

Responsible Environment: Offer the proper enclosure, food, and veterinary care. Failing to meet a pig’s needs can result in very real and quite serious physical and emotional problems.

Adoption and Rescue

Rescue Use: Consider adopting from a rescue. The majority of pigs need homes because people are unprepared for their needs.

Responsible Breeder: When buying from a breeder, you should always make sure they practice responsible breeding and that their animals are well-cared for.

 

Conclusion

Pigs as pets can be great if you are willing to put in the work to care for them; they can be brilliant and make very affectionate pets. Knowledge of the various varieties of pigs, good identification, feeding and housing, and proper medical attention are all important elements of keeping a healthy and happy pet pig. Through loyal care, you can receive not only abundant love, but also a profound, experienced relationship that everyone wants that everyone deserves.