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Frequently asked questions about Vietnamese Miniature Potbellied Pigs . . .
What are some of the pros and cons about having a pet pig? Potbellied pigs (PBP’s) make good companions, but only for the right caregiver. On the plus side, pigs are smart, clean, generally non-allergenic, odor-free, flea-free, charming and inexpensive to feed. Pigs are social, bonding easily with humans. They’ll readily roll over for a tummy rub, as well as snuggle with you. They don’t bark, prowl the streets or spread rabies. Compared with dog droppings, mild smelling ”pig berries” are a breeze to clean up. While pigs are highly trainable and can learn at a faster rate than dogs, pig behavior is vastly different from dog behavior. As eager as a dog can be to please his master, a pig’s respect, trust and cooperation must be earned. If the pig had it his way, you would be pleasing him.
In nature, pigs are regarded as prey, and are therefore naturally suspicious, cautious creatures. They have to be coaxed and rewarded. You cannot force a pig to do anything he doesn’t want to do; it has to be his idea. Don’t expect your pig to eagerly greet you at the door and fetch your slippers. Having a pet pig is kind of like having a perpetual two-year old child. It is because pigs are so intelligent that they can be so stubborn, demanding and manipulative. Pigs can become easily bored, grumpy, depressed, sedentary and even destructive and aggressive, if not given adequate attention by a loving caregiver. While the daily cost of keeping a pig is relatively low, if a pig becomes ill, vet bills can be unmanageable for some people. Qualified potbellied pig vets are unavailable in some areas. You need to locate a vet that will care for pet pigs before you bring one home. Often you will find you must travel quite some distance to find quality care.
Can you take a pig for a walk and play catch with him?
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.
How long do potbellied pigs live?
With proper care, a potbellied pig can live an average of 12 to 15 years. Your pig will live long if you make sure he doesn’t become obese, and if you provide him with ample social interaction, stimulation, outdoor time and physical exercise. If your pig becomes ill, making certain he receives prompt veterinary care will also help ensure a long, healthy life.
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. Ross Mill Farm or another potbellied pig sanctuary adoption program will help find the right pig for you, help you “piggy proof” your home, and support you in caring for your pig. If you find that you do not want to keep the pig, we request that you contact us as soon as possible. Municipal animal shelters (pounds) frequently auction off pigs or destroy them right away.
What are some of the pros and cons about having a pet pig? Potbellied pigs (PBP’s) make good companions, but only for the right caregiver. On the plus side, pigs are smart, clean, generally non-allergenic, odor-free, flea-free, charming and inexpensive to feed. Pigs are social, bonding easily with humans. They’ll readily roll over for a tummy rub, as well as snuggle with you. They don’t bark, prowl the streets or spread rabies. Compared with dog droppings, mild smelling ”pig berries” are a breeze to clean up. While pigs are highly trainable and can learn at a faster rate than dogs, pig behavior is vastly different from dog behavior. As eager as a dog can be to please his master, a pig’s respect, trust and cooperation must be earned. If the pig had it his way, you would be pleasing him.
In nature, pigs are regarded as prey, and are therefore naturally suspicious, cautious creatures. They have to be coaxed and rewarded. You cannot force a pig to do anything he doesn’t want to do; it has to be his idea. Don’t expect your pig to eagerly greet you at the door and fetch your slippers. Having a pet pig is kind of like having a perpetual two-year old child. It is because pigs are so intelligent that they can be so stubborn, demanding and manipulative. Pigs can become easily bored, grumpy, depressed, sedentary and even destructive and aggressive, if not given adequate attention by a loving caregiver. While the daily cost of keeping a pig is relatively low, if a pig becomes ill, vet bills can be unmanageable for some people. Qualified potbellied pig vets are unavailable in some areas. You need to locate a vet that will care for pet pigs before you bring one home. Often you will find you must travel quite some distance to find quality care.
Can you take a pig for a walk and play catch with him?
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.
How long do potbellied pigs live?
With proper care, a potbellied pig can live an average of 12 to 15 years. Your pig will live long if you make sure he doesn’t become obese, and if you provide him with ample social interaction, stimulation, outdoor time and physical exercise. If your pig becomes ill, making certain he receives prompt veterinary care will also help ensure a long, healthy life.
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. Ross Mill Farm or another potbellied pig sanctuary adoption program will help find the right pig for you, help you “piggy proof” your home, and support you in caring for your pig. If you find that you do not want to keep the pig, we request that you contact us as soon as possible. Municipal animal shelters (pounds) frequently auction off pigs or destroy them right away.
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