can i train my piggies?

[Jadeyxx]

Dora tends to nip me when I pick her up. She hasn't actually bit me yet but has tried many of times! When I try to catch her she just goes crazy in her cage and starts running laps!
She nipples on my clothes when I'm holding her to!

Pixie is easier to catch but she has started trying to jump from my hands and scratches me. Me to bits.

Any advice on how to make them more calm? They are still babys to me about 26 weeks old.

Thanks

 

[Briony_S]

use a towel or a fleece blanket to pick them up with and then unfold it on your knee have your lap time then fold them back up and lower into the cage. this will minimise any scratches to you and just as inportantly any risk of dropping them when they are scratching and struggling to get away mid air!

 

[cluuuuur]

They're going to need some more time. Remember that pigs are prey animals, and therefore a hand coming into the cage is a threat to them - think birds of prey swooping down, etc. They're not rejecting you - it's hardwired into them.

You can, however, bribe them. Every time you put your hand in, have some veggies for them. Keep your hands in the cage without going to touch them - let them come to you. Let them climb over your hands, and build up their trust that way.

If they're nipping, scratching and distressed when held it might be worth getting them checked out in case they have mites, which can make the skin really sore.

 

[kyle82]

yes.. pigs can be trained.. ive seen pigs that are well behaved. they can be made pets as well. but their purpose really is for our consumption.. lol... 8

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