Since Porkchop is a house-pig, I'm often asked if pigs have an odor. The truth is, most pigs are clean animals and don't like to get dirty. They only roll around in the mud to cool off, since they can't sweat. The closest that Porkchop has come to being "smelly" was because male pig urine gives off a really musky odor; this was the main reason we had him neutered — not that we were concerned about him breeding with wayward female pot-bellies in our area (Ha-ha!).

I've also been asked, "Where did you get him?!" Many people have stated that they wanted a pot-bellied pig, as well. If anyone is interested in obtaining a pot-bellied pig, especially after reading this entire article, please let me know, and I will put you in contact with the lady from whom I acquired Porkchop.

Some people — including myself — are amazed at how personable and smart Porkchop is (because pitbulls are characters). I used to say that my dogs were so smart, they were smart-**ses, but Porkchop takes the cake on that one! There is never a dull moment, with the combination of Porkchop, our three cats, and our three bulldogs.

However, Porkchop can be a little demanding, so I can see how owning a pot-bellied pig (PBP) could be a little overwhelming, leading to shelters such as "PIGS, A Sanctuary" housing as many as 200 abandoned pigs, at times. But, he is fairly affectionate, very curious, and even plays quite a bit. He is very trainable, like a dog; and, like a cat, can be head-strong and sensitive, too.

PBPs are always on a quest for food — they can get pretty demanding (even waking us up in the middle of the night) and can beg with the best of them; for hours, I would imagine! He "roots" (digging/exploring), and even though it is not a problem in our house, some might not find that acceptable. Don't get a pig if you want a perfectly manicured lawn, unless you have a designated spot for your pig!

We've had a hard time finding the right discipline to use with Porkchop. They do not do well with physical punishment (who does?), and some of the other methods we have used haven't turned out too well. So, we look and sound weird, when we grunt really loud and aggressively, to make him stop whatever he is doing! Of course, treats also help — at least to redirect his attention. Another option that we have not tried, yet, is to use a spray bottle and squirt water at him. He hates getting wet. Speaking of water — that pig can drink about 18 gallons of water a day, it seems! That might be a slight exaggeration!

Pot-bellies have an average lifespan of 12-18 years, with some living for as many as 20 years. They require a good quality pig food, annual hoof and tusk trimming, and exercise. Believe it or not, Porkchop can run pretty fast for a big, fat pig! And boy, is that a sight to see!

One other consideration is veterinary care. While some vets in this area can examine a pot-bellied pig, you will have to go to Mississippi State Veterinary Clinic to have your pig neutered or spayed, and for any other major clinical care. While this is not an inconvenience, it is something you should factor into your decision.

In summary, pot-bellied pigs are very intelligent, social animals that need plenty of attention and interaction. Would I recommend a pot-bellied pig as a pet? Yes, I would. But I would also highly recommend that you do some research on your own, and be sure that you have the surroundings and time to devote to a possibly 20-year relationship with a very entertaining pet.

I wouldn't trade Porkchop for anything — although there are some days I'd like to be able to drop him off, for a few hours, for somebody else to 'pig-sit' Ha-ha!). But, then again, who doesn't want to do that, from time-to-time with their kids, significant other, boss, etc.?!