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Although for several folks the word pig conjures up images of a farmyard, potbellied pigs are increasingly well-liked as domestic pets. They are a lot smaller sized than the normal farm pig, and generally seen with mixed black and white coloring or all black, all white, or silver coloring. Adults typically weigh about 125-200 lbs, are completely-grown at two-three years and are about the height of a medium sized dog. They have a projected lifespan of 15-20 years, and are fairly low maintenance pets, requiring roughly the same amount of everyday care as a dog. Potbellied pigs are well-liked city pets, and their tiny size lends itself nicely to apartment residing.

The potbellied pig originated in Vietnam, and is a mixture of a number of breeds. Provided the opportunity, they can interbreed with common farm pigs and wild boars, as they are all element of the genus sus scrofa. Potbellied pigs are exotic pets, which can make them a bit a lot more troublesome than a cat or a dog for this reason: not all veterinarians treat them which can make it difficult to get these pets the care they need. Pigs require their tusks trimmed each and every couple of years, and might require their hooves trimmed annually. A veterinarian, or an owner who has discovered how from a physician, can carry out these tasks. Pigs will require to be spayed or neutered and need standard vaccinations.

Potbellied pigs make enjoyable pets because they are extremely intelligent and affectionate. Even so, like numerous animals they are prone to laziness and aggression if not effectively exercised and socialized. At instances, an adult pig might rebel against the owner in so-referred to as dominance aggression, and will want to be reprimanded gently however strongly, and taught to respect the owners authority. They can be properly trained, if correctly motivated by food and other rewards. They take properly to good reinforcement when they are behaving properly, but really should not be physically punished.

Pigs must have daily leash-led walks or they will acquire weight. They will consume practically endless amounts of food, especially high-carbohydrate unhealthy food, if allowed, so it is vital to restrict your pets access to the food it craves. They are relentless in browsing for food, and really should be kept far away from the kitchen or any food storage. Unique pig feed can be bought in a pet store or particular-ordered. Pigs are omnivores, equally interested in vegetables, meats, sweets, and carbohydrate-based foods.

Pigs are social herd creatures, and it is frequently suggested that they be kept in pairs or groups, specifically if they are kept outside the residence. This keeps them stimulated and active. Due to the fact of their intelligence, if pigs get bored they could turn out to be destructive and troublesome. Inadequate focus or playtime can compel pigs to do something from rooting up plants to taking up linoleum floors and eating drywall. Pigs need to be kept in their own confined location of the house, preferably an complete space, if not a confined outdoor region. They are clean and essentially odor-totally free, so it is not normally difficult to find a space where they can roam.

Like any pet, a potbellied pig is a severe commitment, and calls for some specialized care that demands time and sources. Shelters are overflowing with abandoned pigs whose owners did not anticipate the kind of interest that their pet would need to have. However, the intelligence, affection and personality of a properly trained, adequately cared for potbellied pig can be extremely rewarding for the prepared, accountable owner. open site in new window