This question comes up a LOT! How big will my pig really get?
The short answer is there is no way to no for sure, but generally you will use the parents as a guide. When purchasing a pig, ask to see the parents. If they are very large Kune Kune pigs then your's is most likely to get close to that size. If the parents are smaller Kune's then yours is likely to be about that size. Also Kune's tend to keep growing up to 3 years of age.
Ask for the parent's age to get an idea if they are fully grown to better gauge size.
There are some terms out there that refer to pig weight classifications. These terms tend to trip up potential buyers. The term 'mini pig' tends to be the most confusing to new buyers.
They might picture a pig that stays the size of a small dog their whole lives. When in reality a mini pig can grow up to 200 lbs. The mini pig weight class is 60lbs - 200lbs.
Now in the pig world, this is a mini version of a pig, as full size meat pigs can get up to 800 lbs. So in comparison, yes the pig is mini.
Don't be too intimated by the potential size, as long as you educate yourself and have proper housing your pig can be a wonderful addition to your household.
Keep in mind a 200lb pig isn't the same as a 200lb dog. Pigs are very solid creatures, a 200lb pig still is likely to be 24" or less in height. Kune Kune pigs are also slow growers. It may take 3 years to reach full size. This means you have time to prepare for the full grown stage.
Our current Kune Kune pigs tend to be in a weight class full grown around 100-125lbs. Our Kune's are on the smaller to medium size of Kune.
Just understand before purchasing there will eventually be a full grown stage. However our full grown pigs are still super sweet. Most lay on their sides when they see my kids wanting belly rubs. They are very patient with our children and are very loving mothers.
So your pig's temperament should stay as sweet as ever once full grown. Just ensure that you have the space for your pig once full grown, such as a nice shaded area outdoors with some room to graze and an outdoor shelter to stay in during bad weather.
Now I have seen many pig parents keep their full grown pigs mostly indoors. You may find success with this as pigs can be potty trained. Personally I prefer an outdoor setup for full grown pigs, think of a set up for an outdoor dog. But you may want to allow your pig time in the house or you may want a mix or indoor and outdoor time. If kept indoors just be sure to pig proof your house just like you would puppy proof. Pigs like blankets to root around in and lay on and balls and treats for entertainment. Pigs do enjoy sleeping a lot, so they will probably be happiest with a warm place to lay and rest close by you.
I do want to note that there are weight classes that get advertised as Micro Pigs or Teacup pigs. These are pigs that are claimed to get no larger then 30lbs. I would say be wary of these claims. The claims of a micro pig staying that weight have never been substantiated. Usually it is breeders selling slow growing breeds that do seem to stay 'small' for a period of time. These breeders usually give strict diet instructions. The essential idea behind keeping the micro size is to starve the pig and provide just enough food to live off of so the pig will grow even slower or stay stunted. This is not a healthy pig or a happy pig. Most owners of these type of pigs report major behavioral issues. The pig may chew up everything in site because they are starving and aren't getting enough to eat. It really is not worth risking your pig's health and happiness along with your own happiness just to try to have a tiny pig. It is best to provide the healthiest diet possible, room to graze and purchasing from a reputable breeder to ensure you are getting a pig that will be the best addition to your family.
I can assure you our pig's receive great care, lots of love, lots of belly rubs, plenty of socialization, lots of veggies and healthy feed to keep our pigs happy. You also have full support from us post purchase to help with any of your piggie questions.
The McGuire Family Farm
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