It is up to the Breeder what they call their Miniature Pigs the different names do not determine their size. In United States we have miniature potbelly, teacup pig, pocket pig, pixie pigs, mini-pigs. The micro mini and mini juliana are breeds of their own.
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 and mini pigs are becoming increasingly popular as domestic pets. They 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. Compared to a full grown regular pig at 600-800 pounds or a full grown potbelly pig at 120-200 pounds when they weigh in at 30-65 lbs then they seem like a teacup size. Adults (miniature potbelly pigs) typically weigh around 30 - 65 lbs, are fully-grown at 2-3 years and are about the height of a cocker spaniel. You can occasionally find breeders with grown pigs in the 25-35 lbs range when sometimes interbred with the mini julianas or are purebred julianas. 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. Teacup potbellied pigs and mini pigs are popular city pets, and their small size lends itself well to apartment living. However they do not navigate stairs well.
They litter box train in a matter of days.
Our Teacup Pig
Teacup potbellied pigs and mini 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 increase their veggies and cut back on grain. 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 will constantly search for food, and should be kept far away from the kitchen or other pets food dish, they absolutely love dog food. 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.
While in your house they will want your attention just like a two year old child would. Give them toys to play with just like children have. This keeps them stimulated and active and will give you hours of amusement. You must pig proof your house just like you would child proof your house for a 2 yr old. They are very intelligent and spend all their brains trying to figure out how to get more food.
Advantages:
Disadvantages:
Click the piggy for the hot new
\