Your Pet Question:

I would like a pot belly pig but I already own three cats and a German Shepherd. Will it get along my other pets?

Helene of Timmins, Ontario

The Expert Says:

Pigs are extremely intelligent, stubborn, curious, and highly motivated to get their own way and “pig-proofing” your home will be essential. They take much time and patience, but are social and will befriend people and other animals eventually. Cats and pigs generally get along, but dogs are natural predators and pigs can be thought of as prey. Communication between dogs and pigs is often misinterpreted on both sides, so introductions should happen slowly when both animals are calm. Never leave them alone together until you’re certain they are trustworthy. You are best to work with an animal behaviour specialist to learn how to train a pot belly pig so that it becomes a welcome addition to your family. When properly trained, pigs are infinitely rewarding pets and can form close relationships with other animals.

Jessica O'Neill of Perth, Ontario, is a Companion Animal Behaviour Consultant working in association with Urika Animal Behaviour Consultants and also owns pot belly pigs.