Potbellied Pigs As Pets: What You Need To Know About Keeping A Potbellied Pig As A Pet (And Why It'S A Good Idea)

Potbellied pigs are often classified more as livestock than as pets. A potbellied pig can make a much-loved addition to a home when given proper care and training. Some people don't realize the demands of keeping pigs as pets and are overwhelmed. Potbellied animals are legal in many areas. Some places classify them as livestock. Other places allow pigs up to a certain size to be kept as pets as well. Because state laws treat pigs as legal livestock, it's your local laws that you need to pay attention to. Piglets come in many sizes. Do your homework and ask yourself if you can handle a pet this large. If you can provide your pig with all it needs, it would be considered ethical to own one. Pigs are very intelligent and trainable. They can be house trained, learn to walk on a lead, and even perform some tricks. A person must earn their cooperation through positive reinforcement, especially treats. Spaying or neutering your pig can help to control hormones. Pigs should be fed pellets that are low in protein and fat and high in fiber. Fresh, nonstarchy vegetables should make up 25 percent of the pig's daily diet. Many veterinarians recommend giving a pet pig a multivitamin. Pigs can be easily overfed and many become obese when they are adults. A fat rollover on your pig's eyes means it is overweight. An annual check by a pet doctor who specializes in piglets is recommended.

Pigs have light skin and are prone to sunburn and skin cancer. They are fairly clean on their own. However, they need regular brush to tame their brushy hair. They bathe themselves once a week in a tub or an outdoor bath using baby shampoo or shampoos specially made for pigs. Train your pig to walk up a rope with you. It can also be a great way to wear down their hooves. Pot bellied pigs, Vietnamese potbellie pigs, Kunekune pigs, and Chinese potbellying pigs grow from 125 pounds to over 200 pounds. It is possible to be deceived by unscrupulous breeders who breed pigs before they are fully mature. They claim the offspring will be the parents' size and environment. Always get a pig from a good breeder or rescue organization. The pig can live as pets from 14 to 21 years. Expect a breeder to pay around $500 on average and less at a rescue. Look for a pig that is friendly, bright and alert. . . .