For several years now, The miniature pig is in high demand as a pet. This little pig, also called a dwarf pig or micro pig, is affectionate, playful, sociable and so intelligent.

Little pig, big intelligence

Did you know that according to Forbes magazine, it would be "by far considered the most intelligent domestic animal in the world." As such, understand that it can be easily trained. It can, among other things, learn to go through a cat flap. Or to ring a bell to alert its owners that it needs to go out.

More and more municipalities are changing their regulations to accept the miniature pig as a pet. But some still do not have regulations because it is still a new animal.

It adapts very well to apartments, condos or houses . On the other hand, you have to be careful about the number of floors. Because if he is able to go up and down stairs, a 2nd floor would be too demanding for him.

Behavior

The dwarf pig needs a lot of affection, attention and cuddles with its owner. It is far from resembling a rabbit and will not seek to spend his days in cage . Quite the opposite!

He needs to be walked, just like a small breed dog. Besides, a cage is not necessary for a pig. He will do very well without one and can even stay alone for about 8 hours without any problems.

However, a pig grinds its teeth and can make about forty different sounds. So if you can't tolerate the noise, forget it.

In fact, it's like having to take care of a 4-year-old child all the time! You have to be authoritative and assertive, because he is very intelligent and has the head of a... pig. So, like a child, he will try. If you are too gentle, he will take advantage of it!

His intelligence is legendary and it has been said several times already! In fact, it is possible to show several tricks to his pig. Examples: colors, grimaces, giving the paw, turning, etc.

It's amazing what we can make this adorable little beast do!

Cleanliness

The miniature pig is naturally clean . In addition, it is hypoallergenic , sheds once a year and sweats little.

It is possible to accustom your miniature pig to bedding with wood pellets or shavings. Pine shavings would be the ideal bedding, because it is natural, non-toxic and the smell of pine attracts them.

The litter box should be easy to access. It should never be moved. This helps the animal get used to going back to it. If you change its location, you will teach him that it is okay to do his business anywhere.

It is even possible to get him used to training mat ( pee pads ). Some even teach their pig to ask for the door. But in winter, he won't stay outside for very long, because he is rather chilly.

Food

The pig eats feed, about a cup morning and evening. To spoil him or offer him a little snack, nothing better than some fruits and vegetables.

Pig feed is quite affordable. As for fruits and vegetables, you don't have to buy them fresh! A few scraps, cucumber or carrot peels, etc. can do the trick very well. In fact, your pig will be a bit like your new compost bin!

Water must be available to him at all times, because he can die very quickly if he lacks it. And he drinks a lot, so choose a bowl accordingly.

Avoid these foods at all costs, as they are deadly to pigs:

• grapes with seeds;
• rhubarb;
• salt;
• butter;
• chocolate;
• dog food;
• cat kibble.

Size

You have to be careful when buying a miniature pig so as not to get scammed! Basically, there are several types and breeds of pigs, and at birth, they are all very small. Only with their curve and growth spurt will it be possible to define what the final size will look like.

Very often they are sold as dwarf pigs. But they are actually Vietnamese pigs. These will weigh between 150 and 250 lbs while in general, adult miniature pigs will weigh from 35 to 70 lbs maximum!

So be on the lookout! Make sure you get your pig from a breeder who will be able to give you the proper paperwork. In addition, if you do business with a reputable breeder, you will generally adopt your pig already vaccinated, dewormed, microchipped and sterilized. Prices vary according to several criteria, including color.

His entry into your home

The pig has a phenomenal memory and it is very easy to gain its trust... as well as to lose it!

So make sure that his first days with you go as smoothly as possible. Provide a room or enclosure for his first days, so that he can learn the basics of education. This will reassure him and help you to housetrain him and socialize him.

Litter on one side and water and food on the other. Also make sure the floor is not slippery.

A final piece of advice: don't approach him from above! Approach him from the side, otherwise you'll scare him. Offer him a treat and wait for him to come to you. Then, repeat the experiment until trust develops.

When he comes naturally to you, you will know that he is confident. And if he lies on his side during a belly scratch, you will know that he is under your spell! Soon he will follow you everywhere and that is when you will be able to show him the other rooms of the house!

To provide him with all the essentials for his well-being, go to the nearest Animo etc store .