Domestic mini-pigs: varieties, care and nutrition

Mini-pigs – that's the curious name of a breed of decorative pigs whose ancestors are Vietnamese lop-eared pigs and wild boars. These small animals were bred in Vietnam. They were brought to Russia only a few years ago, but a club of mini-pig enthusiasts has already been established.

Getting to know decorative pigs

Decorative animals can be of different breeds, each of which differs in size, weight and appearance.

Mini pig breeds

There are 30 breeds of decorative pigs., among which the most popular are:

1. Mini-Maialino. These are the smallest pigs in the world, weighing only 450 grams at birth. Adults can weigh up to 10 kg. Originally bred in Italy, these dwarf pigs were used for laboratory purposes. However, they soon became popular among pet lovers. The breed is quite difficult to breed and raise, so it is not very common.
2. Bergstrasse Knirt. The name of these most common dwarf pigs translates to "little ones" in Russian. Adult females weigh no more than 10 kg, and males around 15 kg. Their fur can be white, black, or red. These "little ones" are very friendly, get along well with other four-legged animals, and love their owners.
3. Siberian Miniature. Developed in Russia, this breed quickly became popular in Europe, where it was nicknamed "Mini-Sibis." Adapted to Siberian cold, this animal weighs up to 50 kg. It has a thick layer of fat and a dense undercoat. Keeping Mini-Sibis in apartments is not recommended, as they require frequent outdoor exercise.
4. Göttingen Mini Pig. A new breed recently developed, it has quickly spread due to its fertility. A mature pig can weigh up to 100 kg. It has an unusually elongated body, a cute round belly, and a black coat. This amusing creature is very voracious and will eat anything in sight. Due to these qualities, keeping this breed in an apartment or house is not recommended. It is best to build a special pen for it in the yard.
5. Vietnamese pot-bellied pig. With a pendulous belly and broad chest, this animal weighs approximately 100 kg. Its coat is primarily black with white spots. Red Vietnamese pigs are rare. These pigs are distinguished by their bristles, which stand on end when frightened or excited. These toy animals are very clean, so they have virtually no odor. They require a heated room to be kept.
6. Wiesenau. Weighing 20-25 kg, these dogs are distinguished by their black and white fur and elongated, wrinkle-free snout. They are most often kept free-range in the yard. With proper training, they will not damage lawns, grass beds, or garden beds by digging.

Advantages

The main advantage of mini pigs is their small size and possibility of keeping at home Along with dogs and cats, with whom they get along very well. The main advantages of small pigs include:

1. Friendly and good-natured. If given enough attention, they will become devoted companions. Mini pigs love their owners very much, sometimes even more than cats and dogs.
2. Miniature piglets are very clean. They are easily trained to use the toilet and will only use designated areas. This is especially important when keeping pigs in an apartment.
3. Mini pigs are easy to train and very intelligent. Research conducted by German scientists has shown that these small pets are capable of learning more commands than dogs.
4. Decorative pigs are not prone to allergic reactions to any food and are omnivorous.

In addition to the above advantages, you should know that decorative pigs are very shyA new pet needs to understand that you won't harm it. Therefore, during the first few days, avoid forcing your company on the piglet. You can tame it with treats, given at arm's length. Touching the pig is not recommended at first.

Once the animal gets used to it, it will begin to approach its owner on its own. Healthy piglets in a good mood love to run around, grunting and squealing.

Mini pigs: price

The average cost of a small piglet from 25 to 30 thousand rublesIt can be purchased either as a pet or to set up a business for breeding and selling decorative piglets.

It's best to buy piglets from specialized farms, where breeders will provide you with all the necessary documents and explain the piglets' pedigree. You can also see the piglet's parents and see what kind of pig it will become.

It's not recommended to choose a pet from online ads or at markets, as unscrupulous sellers may sell you a cute little piglet that will eventually grow into a huge hog.

Care Features

At first glance, keeping mini pigs may seem straightforward. However, from the very first days, the piglet requires training and care.

As soon as the little pet is brought into the house, it should be immediately show him his place and begin to accustom them to a routine. Since mini-pigs are very smart, you shouldn't show weakness during training. They may be cunning and exploit your affection for their own ends.

To curb a piglet's energy, it needs to be taught basic commands. Rewards can only be given with food, and punishment can be a flick on the nose.

Pigs love to chew on everything, so keep all wires and household items out of their reach. Because they are very active, make sure there are no slippery floors in the house where a running pig could get caught.

The main features of care mini-pigs include:

• daily walks from an early age;
• feeding according to schedule;
• bathing in the shower or bath, which they love very much;
• hoof trimming;
• ear cleaning.

Mini pigs are very sexually active. Therefore, they should be neutered or be prepared for their interest in pillows and other objects.

There are many swine diseases for which your pet should be vaccinated as a preventative measure. To do this, consult your veterinarian, who will create a vaccination schedule.

Nutrition

Since miniature pigs are omnivores, It's quite easy to make up their dietIt should be as varied as possible. Pigs can be fed:

• porridges made from barley, buckwheat and oats;
• kefir and cottage cheese;
• fruits;
• various greens;
• boiled or fresh vegetables;
• eggs with shells twice a week.

It's best to avoid overdoing it on potatoes, as they contain starch. However, carrots and bell peppers are good for pigs. Sweet fruits are best given as treats during training.

For pet food You cannot add sugar, salt or any other spicesA small piglet should always have free access to fresh water. In the summer, mini pigs love to graze on a green lawn and nibble on grass.

Before you buy a miniature pig for your home, you should think carefully and evaluate your options. Miniature pigs are real animals, not toys, which can be played with for a while and then abandoned. They require a certain amount of care and maintenance, as well as constant attention from family members.