All about one of the newest designer pet, Teacup Pigs
Although for many people the word pig conjures up images of a farm yard with huge pigs rolling in mud, or eating at a pig trough, for some it is a well mannered pig sitting in the living room with you as you watch television. Teacup potbellied pigs are becoming increasingly popular as domestic pets around the country. Teacup Pigs come in very many colors and are much smaller than the standard farm pig and the regular potbelly pig. They are not really teacup size like one imagines except when they are born when they are around 9 oz. But compared to a full grown regular pig at 600-800 pounds or a full grown regular potbelly pig at 120 – 200 pounds then they are teacup. Adults typically weigh around 40 – 65 lbs, are fully-grown at 2-3 years and are about the height of a cocker spaniel. They have a projected lifespan of 15-20 years, and are relatively low maintenance pets, requiring roughly the same amount of daily care as a dog. With a teacup pigs’ small size they can make good pets for apartments. Pigs litter box train very quickly.
The regular potbellied pig originated in Vietnam, and is a combination of several breeds. Given the chance, they can interbreed with common farm pigs and wild boars, as they are all part of the pig family. The teacup pigs were bred first in Devon, England.
It is often hard to find a veterinarian that will treat a pig, something which should be considered when getting a pig. All types of pigs need maintenance with tusks trimmed and hooves trimmed. A veterinarian, or an owner who has learned how from a doctor, can perform these tasks. Pigs will need to be spayed or neutered and require regular vaccinations.
Teacup potbellied pigs make enjoyable pets because they are very intelligent and affectionate. You could be surprised to learn that some think their intelligence rivals that of dogs, However, like many animals they are prone to laziness and aggression if not properly exercised and socialized. At times, an adult pig may raise a challenge against the owner in so-called “dominance aggression”, much like any pet will at first and they will need to be reprimanded gently yet strongly, and taught to respect the owner’s authority. They take well to positive reinforcement when they are behaving well, but should not be physically punished. They can be well trained, if properly motivated by food and other rewards and have been used many times in shows doing tricks like playing golf, riding a skateboard , sitting on command and many other tricks.
Pigs should have daily leash-led walks or they will gain weight. If you find that your pig is getting too fat you can scatter raw oatmeal where they have to search for it and doesn’t amount to much to eat. This gives them something to eat and exercise at the same time. Of course this is when they are outside. They will eat nearly endless amounts of food, particularly high-carbohydrate unhealthy food, if allowed, so it is vital to restrict your pet’s access to the food it craves. They are relentless in searching for food, and should be kept far away from the kitchen or any food storage. Special pig feed can be purchased in a pet store or special-ordered and local feed stores are starting to carry the specialty feed. Pigs are omnivores, equally interested in vegetables, meats, sweets, and carbohydrate-based foods.
Pigs are best kept in pairs or groups if they are kept outside as they are social animals. While in your house they will want your attention. Like children they need toys to play with so they can amuse themselves. This keeps them stimulated and active. Because of their intelligence, if pigs get bored they may become destructive and troublesome. Lack of attention can lead to pigs tearing up your house. Pigs can be litter trained but need to be kept in a confined area such as a single room. Clean and odor-free they can stay just about anywhere in the house.
Like any pet, a teacup potbellied pig is a serious commitment, and requires some specialized care that demands time and resources. Do not consider owning a teacup pig or potbelly pig without doing a lot of homework to make sure that you and a pig will be compatible. Shelters are overflowing with abandoned pigs whose owners did not anticipate the kind of attention that their pet would need. However, the intelligence, affection and personality of a well trained, adequately cared for teacup potbellied pig can be very rewarding for the prepared, responsible owner.
