The pot belly pigs are a breed of domestic pigs which are known for their attractive and distinctive physical appearance. They are well-known particularly for their rounded bellies, short legs, and relatively compact bodies. They are typically much smaller than the standard farm pigs. And their smaller size makes them popular as pets in some households.
The pot belly pigs are highly intelligent and they can be trained to do tricks, use a litter box, and follow commands like dogs. They are highly social animals and excellent as pets. However, here we are trying to describe more information about this popular pig breed.
Origin And History of Pot Belly Pigs
The pot belly pigs actually came from Vietnam in Southeast Asia, and they were first used by farmers in the region mainly because of their small size and friendly behavior with humans. They were mostly kept for meat production purpose, and some people also kept them as pets.
These pigs were first brought to the United States in the 1980s, and they become popular as pets there. These pigs were advertised as “miniature pigs”. And such advertisement made many people want the pot belly pigs, thinking that they would stay small. However, in reality, some pigs grew much larger than expected, and some people found it difficult to take care of them. Today, these pigs are still kept as pets, but they require responsible owners who understand their needs.
Physical Characteristics
The pot belly pigs have distinctive but attractive physical characteristics that make them easily recognizable and apart from other breeds. As the name suggests, these pigs have a pot-belly that is rounded and sagging. Their legs are short and sturdy. Their ears are often large and stand up, and they have a curled tail that is small and often carried high.
Their skin is typically pink or black, and they many sometimes have some sparse hair or bristles, but it’s generally not very thick. In terms of size, the pot belly pigs are much smaller than the typical farm pigs. Their average body weight is typically between 100 to 200 pounds when fully grown. Mature pigs typically stand about 12 to 20 inches tall at the shoulder.
Diet
Like most other pig breeds, the pot belly pigs also require high-quality pig food. They should be fed a specially formulated pig food or pig pellets that is balanced with all the nutrients they need with the availability of right amount of vitamins and minerals. You can provide them some fresh vegetables like carrots, spinach, cucumbers, sweet potatoes etc. They also enjoy fruits like apples, pears, and berries.
These pigs also benefit from fresh grass or hay, which helps them with digestion. Avoid feeding them junk food, sugary treats, or high-calorie foods. Also avoid overfeeding. And always try to provide them with enough clean and fresh drinking water as per their demand.
Reproduction
The female pot belly pigs typically reach maturity for breeding much earlier than the males. The females generally reach maturity within around their 5 to 8 months of age, while the males may mature a bit later and can take about 1 year. The females go into heat about every 21 days, and lasting for 2 to 3 days. Once the female is mated, it become pregnant. Pregnancy period/gestation of these sows is typically between 112 to 115 days. The female pot belly pigs typically give birth to a liter of 3 to 6 piglets.
Caring
Taking good care of the pigs is very important. So, always try to take good care of the pigs. Feed them with enough good quality and nutritious food. Provide adequate health care and required medical facilities. Always provide them enough clean and fresh drinking water as per their demand and avoid providing them contaminated food.
The pot belly pigs are prone to obesity, so it is essential to provide them a balanced diet and avoid overfeeding them. Try to perform regular exercise to maintain a healthy weight and also to avoid health issues like joint problems. Provide them a spacious living area.
Lifespan
The pot belly pigs can live between 12 to 20 years in proper care and management.
Special Notes
The pot belly pigs are popular as pets, but they can be a challenging commitment due to their specific needs. Unlike other pig breeds, this breed require plenty of attention, training, and socialization. Some areas have restrictions on keeping some specific animals as pets. So, check your local ordinance before bringing these pigs home.
| Breed Name | Pot Belly |
| Other Names | None |
| Special Notes | Friendly, social, distinctive appearance, very good for raising as pets, smaller in size, compact |
| Breed Size | Small |
| Boars | Around 150-200 pounds |
| Sows | Around 100-150 pounds |
| Climate Tolerance | All climates |
| Color | Mainly black, the skin color is typically pink or black |
| Rarity | Common |
| Country/Place of Origin | Vietnam |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
People often ask several questions regarding this pig breed. Here we are trying to list the most common and frequently asked questions about pot belly pigs and trying to answer them. Hope these questions and answer will help you.
