Pig for sale in the Netherlands

Pigs: behaviour and suitability

Pigs learn latches and routines quickly, communicate continually and rest in body contact. Boredom, solitary keeping and food competition readily lead to destruction or aggression. Always assess the actual animal and, when a trade label covers several species, verify the scientific name before acquisition. Age, sex, health and previous housing can noticeably influence behaviour.

Care and housing

Provide daily rooting and foraging opportunities, measured fibre-rich feed, water, shade, wallow and a dry draught-free bed. Use heavy buried fencing and plan foot and dental care. Set up the complete enclosure before the animal arrives and record relevant values and daily behaviour. A sudden change in appetite, activity, breathing, posture or droppings calls for a check of the environment and, where needed, knowledgeable help.

Health and responsible acquisition

Ask about identification and registration, breed or parental size, age, neutering and body condition. Avoid sellers guaranteeing an extremely low adult weight and arrange a veterinarian and transport for an adult pig beforehand. Ask the seller about age, origin, current care and known health problems, and ensure any documents belong to the animal offered. Never choose on colour, size or price alone, and identify a knowledgeable veterinarian or other species expert before urgent problems arise.