Potbelly pig Q’s

[TCCL]

Hi everyone!
We are thinking of taking in this potbelly pig. We have plenty of acreage with no restrictions as to what we can or cannot harbour. Totally new to pigs so want to bounce some things off you guys. Is it true that pigs do not poop and pee where they sleep? Has anyone made a wallowing area for their pig? I’d want to provide that. What should I keep in mind? If they have plenty of space, will they poop or pee in the wallowing area? By plenty of space I mean clearly separated roomy areas. Sleeping area, wallowing area, feeding area, all separated by activity but also assessable to the pig at all times so they can choose where and when they want to go and do what they do. Is this practical?

 

[A_Fowl_Guy]

My pen for my pig is 20ftx40ft. She does not dedicate of urinate in her sleeping or feeding areas nor her kiddy pool. They make their own wallows. Make sure you feed a balanced diet of potbelly pig feed and fresh greens. They can get fat quick.

 

[cassie]

I am no expert on potbellies. Pigs generally do not eliminate where they sleep or eat. They will in the wallowing area. I have seen several books on the care of potbellies on amazon.com. It might be a good idea to get one. That pig looks nice and healthy, but I think it is probably too fat.

 

[A_Fowl_Guy]

I am no expert on potbellies. Pigs generally do not eliminate where they sleep or eat. They will in the wallowing area. I have seen several books on the care of potbellies on amazon.com. It might be a good idea to get one. That pig looks nice and healthy, but I think it is probably too fat.

Definitely too fat but a steady diet and plenty of space to move will help it lose weight haha!

 

[TCCL]

They seem very fat to me, I was just about to ask if you agreed. LoL

Is it correct that large scale pig farms can be dirty, smelly places because too many pigs are jammed into small areas with no regard to providing separate areas for feeding, wallowing, sleeping, and going to the bathroom?

 

[cassie]

They seem very fat to me, I was just about to ask if you agreed. LoL

Is it correct that large scale pig farms can be dirty, smelly places because too many pigs are jammed into small areas with no regard to providing separate areas for feeding, wallowing, sleeping, and going to the bathroom?

Yes. So can small scale livestock operations for the reasons you mentioned.

 

[TCCL]

I wonder what the difference between potbelly pig food and regular pig food is.

 

[Wee Farmer Sarah]

I don't have any pig advice other than if you really want the pig, then bring him home. I love pigs. I go back and forth thinking of adding a pig or turkeys. But then I think of having to shovel another path through 3 feet of snow to tend to more critters. But I'm still thinking about the pigs and turkeys. Good luck!

 

[TCCL]

I don't have any pig advice other than if you really want the pig, then bring him home. I love pigs. I go back and forth thinking of adding a pig or turkeys. But then I think of having to shovel another path through 3 feet of snow to tend to more critters. But I'm still thinking about the pigs and turkeys. Good luck!

We are strongly thinking of going for it. She seems lovable and I don’t think care and housing would be any more complicated than keeping a large dog. I had a dream last night that I was petting and giving her a bath Coincidentally, we too have been wanting a turkey. The farmers co-op around here has been getting in poults lately. I say pigs and turkeys for everyone!!! Everyone who wants them anyway LoL

 

[cassie]

I wonder what the difference between potbelly pig food and regular pig food is.

Potbellies are meant to forage for their food. They need and can use a lot more roughage than regular pigs. If you feed a potbelly a diet made for regular pigs he will soon get so fat he can't walk.