Pigs As Pets
All About Raising Pigs as Pets
Most people would never even consider having pigs as pets. But there are people who are captivated by the personality and intelligence of the pig. A pot-bellied pig, with training and proper care, will make a beloved addition to your home. But some people don't anticipate their needs, and they can often end up at shelters. Raising pigs as pets is definitely not for everyone.
Pigs do have a lot of positive qualities, though. They are easy to train, odor free, quiet, clean, playful, curious, affectionate, and normally hypo-allergenic. But there are things potential pig owners should know up front. They are complex animals and their owners need to understand what they need. Having pigs as pets is not as easy as adopting a cat, for instance.
Most pigs are naturally intelligent. You can often train a pig like you would a dog, so their intelligence is usually considered a positive. But their intelligence can get them into trouble, too – if you don't keep them exercised and happy, they may become destructive. They can be sensitive and headstrong, too.
Pigs will not stop in their relentless search for food. They can learn to open the pantry door, cupboards or even the refrigerator. They can also get quite demanding about food, even to the extent that they become aggressive towards kids who have food. Pigs root and explore with their noses, and may make your house look like tornado alley, with wastebaskets and tables overturned. You can give your pigs a place to root outside; indoor pigs should have outside room to play.
Another problem that some people have noticed when raising pigs as pets is their occasional aggression. They have been known to be territorial, and wish to be the Top Pig in their home. If that's your home, you need to let them know that you're the “top pig” there. Pigs must be taught respect with regard to their owners and their children. You need to set boundaries and enforce rules. Teach your pig what “no” means, and treat them with discipline that is firm but gentle. Pigs love positive reinforcement, and they respond to praise and treats. Do not physically punish a pig that does wrong – just correct him with a no. Set your rules and enforce them, and praise your pig for positive behavior. Lots of patience and repetition will help maintain a positive relationship between the pig and your family.
A pig can live about twelve to eighteen years or more, and although pet pigs are sometimes called miniature, that term is relative – they can still weigh upwards of 125 pounds. They need proper care like any outside animal, even though they may live inside. Feed a top quality pig feed, and make sure they get their proper vaccinations. They will also need their tusks and hooves trimmed, and you will want to neuter or spay any pot-bellied pigs as pets in your home. Pigs love to socialize, and they need to interact with you and your family. If you can keep two pigs, all the better, as long as they get along.
Pigs as pets won't work for everyone, but if you understand what you're taking on and are responsible and caring, the pot-bellied pig will make a great and unusual pet.