Micro pigs, also known as miniature pigs, are small breeds of domestic pig that have been selectively bred to stay much smaller than standard farm pigs – although they can still grow to be quite sturdy!
These pigs are highly intelligent, curious, and full of personality.
They love to root around, explore their surroundings, and interact with people. Just like dogs, they can be trained to follow commands, walk on a lead, and even respond to their name – just like our very own Penny!
Meet Penny the Pig 🐷
Penny is one of our most famous residents here at Monk Park Farm. She’s a micro pig with a big personality – hand-reared from just a few days old and now completely part of the family!
Penny lives up at the farmhouse in her very own pen, known as Penny’s Pigsty – you might even spot her as you drive into the farm!
She’s incredibly friendly, loves people, and is full of character. Penny has been trained to respond to her name and even enjoys going for walks. Her cheeky nature and gentle temperament have made her a firm favourite with visitors and staff alike.
She’s also the perfect ambassador for our Pig Snuggling sessions – showing just how affectionate and clever micro pigs can be.
Next time you visit, see if you can spot her watching the world go by from her sty – and don’t forget to give her a wave!
Micro pigs are very social animals and enjoy lots of enrichment and interaction.
They also have a surprising range of vocal sounds – grunts, oinks, and squeals – all used to communicate how they’re feeling. Can you hear them chatting to you?
Their diet includes specialist pig pellets, fresh vegetables, and the occasional fruit treat – although they need a balanced diet as they’re very food motivated and prone to overeating!
At Monk Park Farm, our micro pigs are the stars of one of our most popular experiences – Pig Snuggling!
Running daily throughout the spring and early summer, Pig Snuggling lets visitors of all ages get up close for a cuddle with these gentle, affectionate pigs.
Sessions are included with admission and always attract a crowd – it’s a truly unique and heartwarming experience!
Heads-up: Our pigs’ wellbeing comes first, so sessions can pause at short notice. Before you travel, check our socials or drop us an email to confirm that Pig Snuggling is running.
🐷 Fun Facts About Micro Pigs (Miniature Pigs)
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They’re not an official breed
“Micro pig” is a nickname for various small pig breeds selectively bred to be smaller than standard pigs – like Juliana, Göttingen, or Vietnamese pot-bellied pigs. -
Their small size can be deceptive
Micro pigs are small for a pig, but not tiny pets. Fully grown, most micro pigs weigh 40–65kg and can reach the size of a medium dog. Many are rehomed because owners expect them to stay the size of a teacup! -
Slow growers
Micro pigs can take up to 3 years to reach full size – so that “tiny piglet” might still have a growth spurt coming! -
Selective breeding = compact pigs
Their small size is the result of generations of selective breeding, often from the smallest of small pigs – but this doesn’t mean they’re genetically less robust. They’re still hardy and full of character! -
Ideal for interaction
Micro pigs are often chosen for petting farms and therapy work because of their manageable size, gentle nature, and love of human attention – which is exactly why they’re perfect for our Pig Snuggling sessions! -
Indoor or outdoor adaptable
They can be kept indoors (like a dog) or outdoors with the right shelter. Some even live in the house with their owners – but they do best with a secure outdoor space to root and explore. -
Pig-proofing required
They’re small but clever – many micro pigs can open gates, sneak into feed bins, and outsmart basic fences!