Frequently Asked Questions:

1. How big can I expect my pot-bellied pig to get when it is full grown?
   

   Originally, the average pot-bellied pig weighed between 200-250 lbs. The pot-bellied pigs currently located in the United States average roughly 150 lbs., although there are some that stay smaller.
   
   

2. Is the size of the sire and dam a good indication of the piglet's growth potential?
   

   Considering that many pigs can be bred after reaching the age of three months, it is hard to know whether the parents are full grown when you see them. Pot-bellied pigs continue to grow until they reach three years. Don't be surprised if your pig gets as big as 150 lbs or more.
   
   

3. Do pot-bellied pigs eat a lot?
   

   Surprisingly, these pigs don't require as much food as you would think. Pigs will easily engorge themselves if food is readily available. It is important to establish regular feeding times to keep your pig in good health. As a guideline, feed piglets roughly 1/4 cups twice per day, and adults 3/4 cups twice per day. Give them some fruits and vegetables as snacks inbetween regularly scheduled feedings.
   
   

4. What kind of food do pot-bellied pigs eat?
   

   Although these creatures will eat almost anything, they do have a highly developed sense of taste and will show individual preferences. A healthy diet includes specially formulated pig food, vegetables, grains and fruits. All chocolate and salt should be avoided as these can cause serious health problems for your porcine friend. Dog food is not a good alternative to pig food.
   
   

5. Do pigs make good "house" pets?
   

   No, pigs aren't intended to be full-time house pets. They have a herd mentality and strong rooting instincts that require access to other pigs and to outdoor areas. Keeping a pig indoors all the time will result in problems and frustrations for you and your pig. Pot-bellied pigs are wonderful pets for owners that can make the time and the room for them to do what 'comes natural'.
   
   

6. What is "rooting"?
   

   Rooting is the natural instinct for pigs to turn up soil with their snout in search of bugs and grubs. The shape of their snout and their strong neck make it possible for pigs to 'root up' all sorts of items commonly found in homes: floor tiles, carpets, wallpaper, furniture and plants, to name a few. To avoid damage to your home or garden, it is strongly recommended you provide a rooting box so that your pig will learn where he/she can do this.
   
   

7. Are pigs really aggressive by nature, or docile as promoters suggest?
   

   Pot-bellied pigs have a strong herd mentality. As they mature, they have a need to fight to establish their position within the herd. This behavior usually appears after they've reached 18 months. You, your family, your other pets and visitors to your home may be considered as rivals in the herd and may become a target of aggressive behavior including biting and charging. This is a normal part of pig development you should be aware of.
   
   

8. Why do pigs wallow in the mud?
   

   Pigs aren't able to sweat, so they need external water for cooling off. Pigs actually prefer fresh water, but will use any wet substance as a substitute, if necessary.
   
   

9. How old do pigs get?
   

   Little is known about the longevity of these pigs as they've only been in the United States for the past 15 years. It is believed that they can live as long as 50 years, although more conservative estimates range from 20 to 35 years. Pigs located at sanctuaries across the country have reached ages of 14 years without any difficulty, so the conservative estimate sounds reasonable.
   
   

10. Does foaming at the mouth mean a pig is rabid or diseased?
    

    Salivary frothing is a normal behavior exhibited by pigs that are very excited about food. Boars will also do this when sexually aroused. Foam builds up around the lips and even drips to the floor. This should not be confused with excessive nasal discharge, which is usually an indication of sickness.
    
    

11. Do zoning laws affect my ability to own a pet pot-bellied pig?
    

    Yes. Pot-bellied pigs are considered livestock by the USDA and by the zoning officials. Ownership of these pets may be prohibited in your area. It is important to check with zoning officials before you bring home your pot-bellied pig. This is also a consideration when moving out of state.
    
    

12. Is it true that pot-bellied pigs are a lot like dogs?
    

    Not really. Although pigs are very intelligent creatures and can be trained similarly to dogs, they have a different social structure and respond to humans in a different way. Dominance training, for instance, works on dogs, but doesn't work on pigs. If you are considering adopting a pig, please visit a sanctuary in your area to see what these creatures are really like. You may be surprised by the amount of attention these animals desire and require.
    
    

13. Do pigs typically bite?
    

    Biting behavior will vary depending on the pig's experiences. As a rule, they only bite when frightened. Pigs have a wide range of personalities and experiences, though. Some pigs may bite out of frustration or because they distrust people after suffering abuse.
    
    

14. What kind of vaccinations do pigs require?
    

    Pot-bellies are susceptible to various diseases and will require some vaccinations. Generally, it is a good idea to get vaccinations for Erysipelas, Leptospirosis, Atrophic Rhinitis and Brucellosis. Tetanus is also recommended. Breeding animals require additional vaccinations and will also require more frequent booster shots. Please consult a veterinarian in your area to determine which combination is the best for your region.
    
    

15. Do pot-bellied pigs like toys? If so, which ones?
    

    Pigs are intelligent creatures and like to keep their minds occupied with interesting things. It is important to provide them with enough stimulating toys to keep them occupied for several hours each day. Toys that can be moved or rolled around are very useful for this purpose.
    
    

16. Where can I find out more about pot-bellied pigs?
    

    Please visit the other links on this site including pig health, suggested reading, links to other related web sites, contact Pigs*A*Lot, or consult a veterinarian in your area.