Pot Belly Pigs

When you call someone a pig, it connotes that they are greedy, or dirty, or somehow not worth your respect. However, the pig is actually a smart, odorless and clean animal. The Pot Belly Pig is likewise a clean, loving, and highly intelligent breed of pig. As a matter of fact, pigs are considered the fourth smartest of all animals. While the Potbellied Pig may need a lot of love and extra patience, it compensates by its unique personality.

Some owners of Pot Belly Pigs have testified to the extraordinary depth of feelings it displays, as well as its highly affectionate nature, high level of intelligence, and a real capacity to communicate, which makes this pig a very special animal indeed!

The Pot Belly Pig is a domesticated breed of pig, which has its origins in Vietnam, and it has 14 sub-species. Substantially smaller compared to the European or American farm pigs, adult Pot Belly Pigs are around the size of a large or medium-sized breed of dog. However, the body of the pot-bellied pig is denser. The Pot Belly Pig can be distinguished quite easily from other breeds of pigs by their straight tail, upright ears, and of course their size.

The Pot Belly Pig's Size, Weight, and Height

Compared to the farm pig, the Pot Belly Pig is miniature in size, which is why it is often referred to as Miniature Pot Belly Pigs. 100 lb Pot Belly Pig can be about the size of a dog weighing around 35-40 lbs. An adult Pot Belly Pig can weigh anywhere from 100 lbs to 250 lb, and not be considered overweight, and yet be regarded as a miniature Pot Belly Pig.

Generally, this breed weighs around 120-150 lbs, however, like human beings, they come in a variety of weights and sizes. When exercised and fed properly, the Pot Belly Pig will grow to its optimum size, according to its genetic makeup. However, its weight can be affected by lack of exercise, underfeeding or overfeeding - just like human beings. This can lead to serious health problems.

As for the height, the average adult Potbellied Pig can measure from 16 to 26 inches at the shoulder.

What to Feed the Pot Belly Pig

Like people, pigs love eating, and it is important to feed the Pot Belly Pig proper amounts and types of food. There are a number of companies that produce food for the Pot Belly Pig, which are specifically designed for them, containing all the nutrients they require, particularly protein, which pigs must have and cannot make themselves. Keep in mind that this breed of pig is an omnivore and not an herbivore. In its natural habitat, the Pot Belly Pig gets its protein from bugs, worms, dead animals, and so on.

Part of taking good care of your Pot Belly Pig is giving it a proper diet. It needs to be fed at least twice in a day. Desist from feeding your pig cat or dog food, because the amount of protein them is too high. You can give these in an emergency, like if you run out of feed, but should not be continued for too long. The Pot Belly Pig's feed should contain about 12-14 percent of protein, and not have too much fat. The amount of feed should be cut only if your pig grazes extensively. Also, pigs should not be fed food meant for human beings, or they will become unhealthy and fat. Basically, a Pot Belly Pig's diet should be akin to a healthy diet for humans, low in fat, devoid of sugars and junk food, and fed adequate amounts, without overfeeding.

The following are foods that should be given in limited amounts to your Pot Belly Pig:

• Spinach: The sodium content is very high - okay to feed as long as your pig has enough drinking water.
• Tomatoes: Very acidic.
• Sweet Potatoes, Yams, Potatoes: High in calories and starchy.
• Corn: Because of the fructose, high in calories.
• Fruits: Likewise, the fructose makes them high in calories.

Note: Many unscrupulous breeders tell people that by underfeeding the Pot Belly Pig it will remain small. However, this can lead to deformities and other serious health problems, and is cruel.

Here are some treats that you can give your Pot Belly Pig:

Un-salted, un-buttered, plain air popped corn, shredded wheat in bite size pieces, and Cheerios are some of the treats that are most popular. There are specially made treats made for Pot Belly Pigs, for their training purposes, which come in peanut butter and apple flavors, while others have tiny pieces of cheese and grapes. However, remember that pigs have a penchant for cheese, so ensure not to give them too much of it. Also, pigs should not be fed chocolate, because according to some reports, it can be deadly for pigs. As a matter of fact, it's best to avoid feeding your pig any kind of candy.

Also, provide enough clean drinking water, because they need it just as much as we do.