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Adopting A Potbellied Pig - What You Need To Know

By: Dana Goldberg

Thinking about getting a pig for a pet? Do you want to adopt potbellied pig? There are pigs that need homes, just the same as other pets that have been abandoned. Domesticated potbellied pigs: means that they can be trained to do nearly the same things as dogs and cats can be trained to do, and they can be housebroken.

All about the Potbellied Pig

The color that these pigs were when they first reached the US was black. Today, these little ones can be tan, white, grey, and red. Some of these pigs have what is called spotted coloring and a lot of people like to get these ones with spots on them. They are all adorable, no matter what their color is, and they are very smart animals.

These pigs can grow to be a good size. Their weight can reach approximately two hundred pounds. If they are trained to be well mannered, the weight will not be a problem as they get older. They can live for ten to 12 years or longer.

The difference between the females and the males and their attitudes (personalities) is kind of the same as dogs. The male will be more needy (clingy), but more hostile. The female is mellower and less needy. The only time the female will show signs of personality conflicts will be when she is preparing to have her own babies.

Why Adopt a Potbellied Pig?

When people want a pet that will always amuse them and keep their interests peaked, they might want to adopt a potbellied pig. These animals are like clowns and can learn tricks and tasks. They can be stubborn, at times, but they are usually very entertaining and lovable. The best part about going to adopt a potbellied pig is saving his or her life from loneliness. It will be very rewarding, especially once he or she shows the true colors of clowning around. Even those who are stubborn are hilarious. One just cannot help but to laugh at these animals.

Training a Potbellied Pig

Potbellied pigs can be trained to use the bathroom in a litter box, or they can be trained to tell their owner when it is time to go outside to use the bathroom.

They can be trained to pick up things, retrieve things, and bring things to their owner.

They can be trained to open doors, if the owner wishes them to learn this.

The best way to train the potbellied pig is by using treats every time he or she does a task to trick the way they have been shown how to do it.

The best way to train your potbellied pig to urinate in a litter box, or other designated area, is to set up his or her water bowl next to that area. This may sound odd or funny, but there is logic to this way of thinking. Pigs will usually use the bathroom while they are drinking water. This is good to know ahead of time.

Caring for the potbellied pig

Treat this household pet just like the other pets in the home. Allow some outdoor time for this pet to go out and exercise, just as other pets do. The pig will have to have some maintenance on his or her hooves every 2-3 years, such as trimming. The local Veterinarian will be able to offer more information on medical and other care that may be needed. Pigs can get deer and wood ticks on them, just as other pets can. It is usually deer ticks that will be found. Ask the local Veterinarian about this, as well. If the pig is going to have his or her chances at a healthy life and long life, it is a good idea to have him or her vaccinated for whatever is necessary, and stay caught up with the shots.

Potbellied pigs love to be outside and they love to have dirt to dig into, especially if they can find some plants to eat when they dig. Of course, if someone lives where snow will be on the ground during the winter time, the pig will adapt to the change and await the spring time. Keep in mind, though, that this pet will dig up parts of the yard. It might be a good idea to have a little pen in an area where it is okay to dig, like out back where no one else can see the dug up yard.;)

Believe this or not, but potbellied pigs do not require that much care. Keep in mind that their eyes are not that great, so fast movements can startle them.

Feeding tips

Even though a pig will not refuse any piece of food that is placed before them, this is not how they should be fed. They should only eat certain types of food. There is a pig food most people call "pig chow". A grain place might be the best place to find this type of food for the newest pet in the home.

Preparing before the pet comes to the new home

This is kind of the same as having a newborn baby come home from the hospital. The home needs to be safe for the new arrival. Make sure that everything that could be dangerous, or that is important, is out of reach for the potbellied pig. They will be very curious and will probably try to grab anything and everything when they explore their new home, inside and out.;)

Article Source: http://www.bluearticles.com


For detailed information on Potbellied Pigs and great Potbelly Pig Tricks visit Potbellied Pigs

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