Teacup Pigs Micro Pigs-What Are They & Where Can I Get One

Teacup Pigs & Micro Pigs-What Are They & Where Can I Get One

Teacup pigs, Micro Minis, Micro Extreme!  What are these pigs and where can you get one?  The truth be told, there is not a breed or special kind of pig called a Teacup Pig.  There is nothing remarkable or special about Micro Pigs or Micro Extreme Pigs.  All pet pigs today are miniature pigs.  Miniature pigs are a class of pig that is smaller, shorter, and more compact than a full sized farm breed pig.   So why have you heard so much about Teacup and Micro Pigs?  Of course, they are a special kind of pig.  We hear about them all the time on the internet, in for sale ads, and in videos.   Teacup, Micro, Micro Mini, Micro Extreme are not types of pigs, they are labels added to imply that the pig will stay a smaller size, like a teacup or toy sized dog breed.  Years of research and collecting growth rates and ages have proven that there are no adult pigs under 15 inches tall and 60 pounds.  No breeder or owner has ever shown proof of age and measurements of a pig smaller than this in the last 6 years.  If an ultra small adult pig did exist there would be proof of that.  This means that the 20 pound adult size estimates are not realistic.  These words or labels that are used to describe pet pigs are not realistic.  If a pig is something you would like to add to your family as a pet, then you can not trust a weight estimate if you are given one.  The best way to educate yourself and get truth on sizes, is to look for an AMPA registered breeder.  These breeders have been thoroughly screened and have provided the AMPA with proof of ages and photo documentation of measurements of their registered pigs.  They can not make claims of sizes smaller than what they can prove.  You can find a registered breeder here on our breeder map.

The miniature pigs are made up of some rare breed pigs and some more common mixed breed pigs.   Let’s talk breeds!

American Mini Pigs are the most common of all pet pigs today.  They are a mixed breed that fit a specific breed standard. Health and temperament are the most important aspects of the breed since American Mini Pigs have been developed for the sole purpose of being raised as pets/companions. A compact, sturdy size of 15-20 inches gives the American Mini Pig a smaller stature than other breeds, that is suitable for indoor/outdoor homes. The perfect size for a pet pig. Weight varies based on the body condition of the pig, with focus on a healthy, robust, athletic build where the pig is able to move and run freely with clear vision. Due to the variety of breeds that contribute to the genetics of the American Mini Pig, this breed is one of the most varied in color and markings.  The American Mini Pig is registerable through our association with records being stored and traced to produce history of lineage and pedigrees.

Juliana is another mixed breed miniature pig that fits a specific breed standard over multiple generations.   The Juliana is always profusely spotted.  15 inches or taller with a longer leg, lean build, and longer, narrow snout.  The Juliana is registerable through our association with records being stored and traced to produce history of lineage and pedigrees.

Pot Bellied Pigs or Vietnamese Pot Bellied Pigs are well known for being the breed that started the pet pig craze when they were imported in the 80’s.  They are quite a bit larger than the pet mini pigs we see today, and it’s rare that we see any pure Vietnamese Pot Bellied Pigs today.

Gottengin, Hanford, and Minnesota Mini Pigs are rarely seen today.  Some may be found in laboratory research, but they are rarely allowed to be raised by the general public.

Yucatan Mexican Hairless, Meishan, Kunekune, Ossabaw are the largest of the miniature breeds, but still far smaller than a full sized farm breed.  Some mini pig owners have these rare breed pigs are pets.  They do require quite a bit of outdoor space.

So you thought you wanted a teacup or micro pig.  Now what?  Do your research.  Get comfortable with the fact that a pet pig will be similar to an English Bulldog in size AT THE SMALLEST.  They are short, compact, and heavy animals so don’t think about weight.  Think height and know that you will not be able to carry your pet pig around forever.  Look for an AMPA registered breeder who has provided proof of age and photo documentation of the measurements of their registered pigs.  This can give you piece of mind that you are not buying a pig that will grow to 800 pounds.