Training Your Teacup Pig to Walk with a Harness and a Leash

Pigs are intelligent pets and can be trained to walk with a harness along with a leash. Due to strict leash laws that are enforced in most home developments, it’s a good idea to teach your pig to walk with you while on a leash. Also, you don’t want your friend running away from you when you’re taking him or her out for a stroll.

How to Determine Your Pig’s Readiness for a Harness

Before you begin working with your pig on a leash, you need to make sure that your pet is big enough to wear a harness. Also, your friend should be comfortable wearing the equipment. When your teacup pig is still small, he or she may not fit properly into a harness and if the device doesn’t fit correctly, your pig can be injured.

After you’ve determined that your pet does fit into a harness properly, you will need to evaluate the rapport that you have with your pet. Will your pig let you place a device with straps on his or hers body? Your pig will need to be comfortable with you strapping him into a harness.

Choosing a Harness and Leash for Your Pig

Your next step is to choose the proper equipment. You have several options to outfit your pig comfortably. Harnesses manufactured for pigs are created to walk this type of animal, but you’ll want to do research to locate the brand that will fit your friend the best. Measure your pig to make sure that the harness will fit him or her securely, but will not squeeze too tightly. When purchasing your leash, you will find a large selection to pick from. Consider the length of leash that will work best for your pig’s enjoyment. Remember that your friend will need enough room to walk comfortably by your side, but not so much extra line that he’ll get tangled up in it, or that the leash will become snagged on obstacles that you’ll encounter during your walk.

Harnessing Your Pet

You know the personality of your pig better than anyone, so just remember that all pets have their own unique character. Also, some pig’s will accept a harness fine while others will protest having one on. If your friend doesn’t like the harness initially, then give him or her some time to become accustomed to wearing it. You can leave your pig’s walking equipment lying around for a bit to let your pet smell the leash and the harness. He may even play with it.

As you know, pigs love to eat, so you may want to feed him something delicious every time you strap your pet into his harness. Don’t force your pig to wear his harness. If your friend protests wearing his new gear, then give him more time to adjust to it. Also, before taking your pet out for a walk; let him wear it at home until he or she is comfortable in the device. Review the fit and make sure your friend’s legs are able to move properly.

Walk Your Pig

Once you’ve worked with your pig and he or she has agreed to wear a harness, you are ready to take your pet for a walk. Stock up on your friend’s favorite treats and both of you will be ready for some well-deserved exercise. Reward your pig with a treat when he follows you willingly, but also tempt him with treats when he wanders away from you. After you’ve brought your pig back on track, you should give him another treat. Also, you shouldn’t ever jerk, yank or holler at your pet.

Teacup pigs are smart pets that are consistent companions and your well-trained friend will surely add to your life’s enjoyment.