Dominance or affection?

[Dandelion&Burdock]

Hi

We have recently bonded our 3 month old sow (Dandelion) who lost her sister, with a very sweet young (neutered) chap. He is 8months old (Percival). After a few days of extreme rumbling, things are settling down nicely. I wouldn't say it's love just yet, but they don't argue too much. Dandelion is an abi through and through, very cheeky and full of beans.

The last few times they have been sat out with me, I've seen dandelion try to get something out of Percival's mouth. Although he hasn't had any food. So I don't know what she's doing. He lifts his chin and she seems to really examine is mouth... Is she just a bit loopy or is she bossing him about? Funny pigs.

Any advice great fully received

 

[Abi_nurse]

Occationally pigs will lick at each others chin area. Other times they have a nose off. The piggies raise there noses in the air and the piggie with the highest nose wins.

Whichever it is, it sounds like very mild and normal behaviour of a bonded pair.

x.

 

[Wiebke]

I'd think it is rather (very mild) dominance behaviour; quite normal for the stage they are at at the moment. They will bond more over the next few (usually stronger) seasons; hopefully you will see some bond reaffirming affection when an emotional rollercoaster is over.