Pigs are much cleaner than you might think and this makes them super pets. They are very intelligent and obedient. They can be trained to stay indoors or to be on a leash like dogs, with the difference that domestic pigs have unique, special needs: be prepared.
Steps
Step 1. Check your local regulations to find out if it is legal to have pigs in your home where you live
Step 2. Make sure you are able to make and keep the pig healthy and happy
- Pigs are very social, so you will need to spend time interacting with them. As with a dog, try to make the pig understand that the owner is you, otherwise you risk making him spoiled, nagging and potentially aggressive and dangerous for children. Consider getting 2 pigs so they can keep each other company.
- Remember that pigs are very cunning and curious. When they learn to do something (pull the carpet, open the fence door, etc.), they don't forget it. Always try to stay one step ahead of them, as they can also be very stealthy and manipulate you to get what they want. It is indeed very important to keep them engaged and stimulated, because when they get bored they could become destructive.
- Pigs should have an area outside the home to get active and practice their natural instincts.
- Consider the average life span of a pig and the associated expenses. Pigs can live up to 20 years, they need food, vaccines, and tusks and hooves kept under control at all times. Also consider spaying / neutering them. But above all: if you move, can you always take them with you?
Step 3. Adopt or buy the pig from a reputable breeder
Piglets from pet stores or farms look docile and cute, but they may be sick or have a temper that could make your life a nightmare. Visit the breeder facility and ask to see the parents of your future pig to judge their temperament and understand what you are getting into.
Step 4. Love your pig
Pigs, like most animals, love to interact with humans, and it wouldn't be unusual to see a pig lying on its stomach waiting for someone to tickle it.
Step 5. Make sure they have access to a spot where they can roll around, as this is the only way to regulate their body temperature especially in the heat
Pigs, even if they don't sweat, need to stay cool.
Step 6. Pay attention to the outdoor farming method
Pigs "take root" and may briefly turn a fairly large area into a plowed field.
Step 7. Make sure they have access to pasture and that they have a varied and satisfying diet
Step 8. Make sure their diet is varied and balanced
Pigs like many types of fruits and vegetables. Never give food suitable for pigs or other animals for slaughter.
Step 9. Make sure they have a dry, sheltered sleeping spot where they can enjoy their hay
Piglets dig deep holes in the hay to stay warm. Adult pigs, on the other hand, are content with wood chips (not sawdust!).
Advice
- Teach the pig to respond when you call him by name, and other simple orders like "No" or "Out". They learn very easily.
- The pig can get burned in the sun. So, if you decide to keep him outside or take him for a walk, remember to apply protective sunscreen on his back.
- Teach the pig what you would teach your dog.
- Keep in mind that it can be difficult for a pig to look up due to the shape of its neck. Remember this when you expect me to see or look up at something.
Warnings
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Without proper care and attention, pigs can be very dangerous. Don't abuse it and deal with it in the right way. THIS APPLIES TO ALL ANIMALS.
- Avoid starting a piglet treatment method that you won't be able to continue when it becomes an adult. It is difficult for them to understand when and why there are changes.
- Remember that sows can start having litters as early as teenagers. Choose two pigs of the same sex or have the male castrated. Before castrating him, wait until he is at least two weeks old.
- Pigs often feel lonely and need another pig to keep them company. Even if you think you are enough, sometimes you are not.
- A pig is a small and charming creature. But as it grows it can become huge and, without proper care, it could become aggressive and consequently dangerous.
- It would be much better to keep two pigs and not just one. The life we lead today rarely allows us to constantly keep our pets company. Loneliness is a sad fate.
