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The pot-bellied pig originated in the jungles of China and Vietnam, and since their introduction to North America in the mid 1980s, they are rapidly becoming extremely popular as family pets. In recent years thousands of households across the United States and Canada have chosen the pot-bellied pig because of its cleanliness, intelligence, and unique appearance.
Today there are Pot-Bellied Pig associations, clubs, contests and shows. Bookstores carry many different books aimed at owners of this popular pet; and on the internet it's possible to find chat rooms, e-groups, and whole web sites devoted to these unique pets.
However, before choosing a Pot-Bellied Pig as a pet, prospective owners should learn as much as possible about the care and raising of this delightful animal.
One of the first things to remember is that depending on where you live, Pot-Bellied Pigs may be considered livestock instead of pets. So before you invest time and money in the purchase of a piglet, check out the zoning laws in your area.
Once you've been given the all clear signal from your township, carefully screen the dealer you are considering buying from.
You can expect your pig to live between 12-18 years. And like other more common pets, the Pot-bellied Pig requires lots of loving care, regular check-ups and proper vaccinations.
Your cute little Potbelly could grow to weigh around 125 pounds. And although these pigs have poor eyesight, they do have a highly developed sense of smell. So watch what you leave around, and be extra careful with alcohol and chocolate, both toxic to pigs. There are many commercially prepared foods available for potbellies, and fresh fruits and vegetables can be added to the diet for variety and extra nutrition. It is also important to have fresh water available at all times.
Your Pot-Bellied Pig may be kept either indoors or outside. The ideal temperature is around 70 degrees Fahrenheit. In cold weather if the pig is to be kept outside, an insulated shelter is essential to prevent hypothermia. Indoors, the pigs will cuddle in a warm blanket, but should be supervised around fire places, wood stoves or portable heaters.
Because these pigs have natural rooting instincts, an area of soft dirt or soil should be provided for your pig to root. If a suitable rooting place is not provided, the Pot-Bellied Pig can cause considerable damage to your house or yard. It is also important to remove the canine teeth around four months of age, otherwise the pig can inflict very serious puncture wounds.
Pot-Bellied Pigs are highly intelligent and can be trained to do simple tricks or walk on a leash. Use simple commands and rewards, much as you would to train a puppy. They can also be taught to use a litter box, or they can be house broken. However, it is best to use only one method of toilet training to avoid confusion and mistakes.
You will find that your pet pig is virtually odor-free, so it is not necessary to give frequent baths. When you do bath the pig, be sure to use only very mild soap or hypoallergenic shampoo. Brush your Pot-Bellied Pig daily with a soft bristle brush. Also, make sure to have the hooves trimmed regularly. Males will require regular tusk trimming.
Between the age of 6-7 months old, your Pot-Bellied Pig will reach puberty. Females will have a heat cycle every 21 days lasting for around three days. If you do not plan to breed your pig, be sure to arrange to have it spayed or neutered as early as 2-4 months of age.
With proper care and lots of love and attention, your Pot-Bellied pig will not only make an excellent and affectionate pet, it will, in no time at all, become part of the family.
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