Mini pigs can make great pets. They are smart, quirky, clean and hypoallergenic pets. They have unique personalities and are easy to train. Despite all the great things about mini pigs, many are still surrendered to rescues when they grow larger than expected. So, what makes a mini pig…mini?

What is a mini pig?

A mini pig refers to a class of domesticated pig ranging from 60 pounds to 200 pounds and 14 to 20 inches tall. “Mini” is used as a differentiator between traditional farm or production pigs and smaller pigs bred as companion animals. Mini pigs can be mixed or pure breeds, with common ancestry from Juliana, KuneKune, Pot-bellied and Göttingen mini pigs. Mini pigs reach maturity at five years old and have 20 years life expectancy. Like other pigs, mini pigs are incredibly smart and social animals. They are easy to train and can make great pets or therapy animals.

How big are mini pigs?

Mini pigs range in size from 60 pounds to 200 pounds – some even reach 300 pounds! On average, mini pigs are 70 to 150 pounds at maturity. They are short in stature, often between 14 and 20 inches tall at the shoulder.

For traditional pet species, the average size of a mini pig can seem quite large, but compared to traditional farm pigs, mini pigs really are mini! Full-size farm pigs easily reach 600 pounds and can tip the scales at half a ton.

The American Mini Pig Association has established standard size classifications and are working to further define common characteristic of mini pigs. It’s important to remember that pigs will continue growing until they reach maturity at 5 years old and require proper nutrition to stay healthy. Withholding food to keep a pig small can cause malnutrition and health issues, as well as incite destructive behavior.

What is a “micro” or “teacup” mini pig?

Pigs range in size, shape, color and breed. While some breeds have been bred for smaller sizes, pigs labeled as micro, teacup, nano, pixie, etc. are simply labeled as such and do not represent an established size range. With the rise in popularity and breeding of mini pigs, the American Mini Pig Association has an established height classification chart to help eliminate confusion caused by misleading advertising labels.

Work with an established, reputable breeder, rescue or veterinarian to determine a healthy weight and body condition for your mini pig. Mazuri® offers complete nutrition pellet diets for juvenile, active adult and maturemini pigs.

Want to learn more about mini pig nutrition? Check out Mazuri® mini pig diets!