Pot Belly Pigs a Problem with Other Pets?

Helene of Timmons, Ont. wants to know:
Q: Pot Belly Pigs a Problem with Other Pets?
" I am considering getting a pot belly pig as a pet, they are so cool and I have lots of room. But I already own three cats and a dog ( German Shepherd) who all get along. How do pot belly pigs typically get along with other pets? "

A: Hi Helene,
Getting a potbelly pig is a very exciting and stressful event. It is imperative that you are first prepared for the kind of care and training they will require before making a decision. Never take a piglet home before 8 weeks of age, and make sure you are adopting your pet from a reputable breeder (if you decide to rescue a pig, make sure you are familiar with any undesirable behaviours they may have and organize to work with a pet behaviour specialist). Piglets take time to adjust to new people, at first they don't like bring picked up or manhandled. Pigs are extremely intelligent animals, far more complex than dogs, and therefore more difficult to train. They are stubborn, clever curious, and highly motivated to get their own way. Pig-proofing is essential. This process is similar to toddler-proofing (remove edible objects, dangerous items, lock cupboards, fridge and keep the garbage out of reach). These are definitely not pets for a novice trainer or first time pet owner. Management is essential.

Pigs are very social creatures and enjoy the company of people and other animals. The major problem that occurs between pigs and dogs is a lack of effective communication. Many behaviours that pigs exhibit are misinterpreted by dogs. It is up to you (the owner) to teach and translate so that your animals understand what is being asked ("go away" or "come play"). Reward your dog and pig for the proper responses. Dogs who have a strong prey drive should never be left unattended with a pig, as serious injury can occur. Dogs are natural predators, and pigs are natural prey ( I have experienced this first-hand).
Introductions should happen slowly when both animals are calm. Separate the animals if they become too excited, this is when they stop thinking and begin reacting impulsively. Cats and pigs generally get along well. They will often sleep together keeping each other warm.
I hope this answers some of your questions, and has given you some new things to think about. Do lots of research before making your choice. They don't stay small forever and often have limited mobility as adults. They are a labour of love, but too many end up neglected and in shelters. For more advice feel free to contact me through my website. www.petbehaviour.net

Fearful Shituz

Q: Erma MacDonald
Question: My shitzu is afraid of dogs and people. She charges at people trying to bite their legs. How do I make her more friendly? She does have some friends both dogs and people but it took a long time to get there and they are family.

A: Hi Erma,
Be assured, that this is a very typical issues seen with small dogs (lap dogs). In most cases, the issues are not resolved easily because of the owner's tendency to nurture their dog's insecurity (or uncertainty) in an effort to provide comfort. When dogs become stressed, nervous or scared their response are limited to two main functions..fight or flight. Depending on the dog's age, breed, sex, and past experiences they will usually exhibit one more often than the other. Your dog faces the fear head-on and creates confrontation.

In order to change your dog's response in these circumstances you must first exhibit the energy that you want the situation to represent. If you want your dog to have a relaxed and enjoyable experience, you must be relaxed, calm and happy. Becoming stressed, angry or nervous will only confirm your dog's fear.

Once in the right state of mind, the next step is to go slowly with new people. Don't force her to make friends, give her space and time in a social setting to become comfortable. Provide lots of food rewards in unsettling environments, and celebrate small successes (glancing at a stranger and then looking back to you, walking past another dog without an overreaction, etc.). Ask people to ignore her at first, no eye contact or reaching in to her space. When she is ready, let her go to the person. You can put food rewards on the floor by the persons feet to encourage her to move closer.

If she does begin to react inappropriately, focus on redirecting her (pulling to the side of the neck with the leash in the opposite direct then she is pulling), and reward her for coming away from the person or animal she was reacting to. Never coddle her when she is afraid by picking her up. Wait until she is no longer reacting, then the cuddle will be a reward for calming down.

Remain cool, calm and collective.... your dog will follow.