Can pot belly pigs live outside?

Question
Hello We are considering buying a pot belly piglet, my question is can they live outdoors after a certain age? We live in NJ and winters can be cold (sometimes into teens) and summers can get hot (sometimes up to high 90's) Also should we purchase 2 so they have a companion? We have 2 dogs that live with us too. Thank you for your time.

Answer
Yes, pot-bellied pigs do fine outdoors in NJ. They will need a pen with secure fencing, shade and water in summer, and dry, windproof shelter in winter.

The fencing is not just to keep the pigs in, but to keep other things, like stray dogs, out. Pigs love to root and may try to dig out under the fencing. A strip of wire mesh at the bottom of the fence will help keep them in.

Outdoor pigs can tolerate the temperatures because the seasons change gradually, so the piggies have a chance to adapt to the weather. In summer, they will need shade and constant access to drinking water. Ideally, they should have a kids wading pool or mud pit, too.

In winter, the key words for shelter are "dry" and "windproof". Wet bedding will not keep the piggies warm, and drafty shelter will not keep the warmth in. Plastic dog-a-loos stuffed with straw and tucked in a sheltered spot that does not flood are fine for NJ.

Pigs are herd animals, and when kept outside they do much better in pairs or small groups than individuals. Before you buy, please consider adoption. There's a number of young pigs and piglets available on www.pigplacementnetwork.com