Potty training your mini pig can be done easily with consistency and positive reinforcement. They often learn much faster than other pets. Mini pigs are clean and prefer one or two specific potty areas. There are a few options for potty training. We will begin the introduction to litter pan training before your piglet leaves us.
Options for potty are a cement mixing pan or an under the bed plastic storage container. We always cut a door in the side so that the piglets can step in easily. In the litter pan you may use pine shavings, pine litter pellets, paper pellets, or a puppy potty training pad.
Choose your potty spot carefully. Once you pick a spot it should not be moved. It’s best to confine your piglet to a small area. A pet playpen or laundry/bathroom with a baby gate. In the smaller space your pig will feel safe and at home. They prefer to potty in one specific spot, usually on the opposite side of the space from food/water or bed often in a corner. If your piglet has an accident, clean it up and put it in the potty pan to remind him or her where the potty spot is. Clean the accident area thoroughly with an odor neutralizer or enzyme cleaner to prevent a return visit.
Potty Training
Many families prefer for their piglet to go outside to potty. The pigs actually seem to prefer it. If you want your piglet to potty outside, we recommend a harness that is made specifically for a mini pigs body. They are very easy to put on and the piglet cannot wiggle their legs out of it if it fits properly. We love Pig Gear harnesses. You will also want to use a very long leash. Pigs do not like to be tethered.
When you put your piglet in its harness, it can be a good idea to use a snack/treat to distract the piglet. Slip the harness on gently. Let your piglet wear the harness around the house to get comfortable in it. Do not take your piglet outside without a harness and leash and safe, secure fencing until you have taught the command to come. They are fast and they will be impossible to catch if they get loose!
Mini piglet harness training.
Harness Training
There are a few methods for harness training. The goal is to get that harness on as stress free as possible. Do what works for your piglet. Distraction with pellets or treats. Scratches and loves work well too. We have a few videos that help with this process.
Mini pig leash training.
Leash Training
Leash training a mini pig is not about leading or pulling the pig with the leash. Your goal is to have your pig come or walk alongside you while you hold the leash loosely. Shaking treats helps. Lure the pig to go in the direction you desire or follow your pig’s lead so that the leash does not tighten and scare your pig.
Teaching your mini pig to ring a bell to got outside for potty.
Teach Your Mini Pig to Ring a Bell for Potty
Ringing a bell is the cutest way a pig can learn to communicate with you. You can teach this as a fun trick or as a form of notification that your pig needs to go outside.
Teach Your Mini Pig to Ring a Smart Bell for Potty
We love this mounted smart bell or doorbell that let’s us know when it’s time to go outside.
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