Kune kune Pigs Frequently Asked Questions

I want to get a kunekune, where do I start?

How big are kunekunes?

Kunekunes are the smallest domesticated breed of pig in the world. We have kunekunes that are a range of sizes, including some of the smallest in the country. Their natural shape is rounder and fatter than a dog. Before you buy a kune you should look at the parents and other stock a breeder has. The piglets can be very small. As small as a teacup, and they can stand in the palm of your hand. At this point you might call it a miniture pig. However its not the size of a piglet that matters, and you should be comfortable with the size the adult pig you will have after 18 months of growth.

Do you breed micro pigs, teacup pigs or miniature pigs?

There are no such breed of pig called 'micro', 'teacup' or 'miniature'. We have various bloodlines and animals, some of which will produce smaller pigs than others.

Some people use phrases like micro, teacup or miniature to indicate the pigs they have are smaller than modern commercial pigs - which is not hard given that they are bred to grow. However this can give people a false expectation of what these animals will become when fully grown. Before considering owning any pig, always look at the parents and other stock that a breeder has.

Where can I keep kunes?

A field, or paddock is ideal. Many people keep them in a large fenced off area in a field, or large garden. As long as the pigs have access to a straw filled shelter that is dry and out of drafts they can be kept outside all year. The more space the better. We let ours graze the fields in summer, and confine them to smaller areas in winter when trotters would damage the wet pasture.
A few people keep a kune in the house, and train it like you would a dog. This is not something I would recommend, as pigs of any size are more suited to the outdoors. You need to think very carefully before making the commitment.

What do kunes eat?

The kunekune is the only true grazing pig. An adult can maintain condition on grass throughout the spring/summer months without the need for extra feed.
An acre of grass can sustain at least 5 kunes. If you do not have enough grass, they can still happily be kept in a smaller area and be fed low-protein pig pellets, hay and any spare fruit and vegetables to make up the difference. Perhaps the majority of kune owners feed their pigs this way.

If kunes are fed purely on pig pellets the approximate quantities per day are:
Piglets 8 weeks-4 months - 0.5kg
Piglets 4-9 months - 0.75kg
Adults 1-1.5kg
The more grass, vegetables, hay or other feed is given, the less pellets are needed.
A 25kg bag of pig pellets will cost around £7.

What kunes dig?

Some kunes do, some don't. Certainly kunes dig less than other breeds of pig. Whether a kune will dig or not depends on a lot of factors, many of which are not fully understood. Opinions vary, and here are some of the most popular theories:

• If a kune cannot get enough food, it will dig as it gets hungry. This can happen towards the end of Summer as the nutition content of grass starts to diminish, if other feed is not provided.
• The nature of the pig - sometimes one sibling will dig while the other will not. Some people also report that a kune will grow out of the behavior as it gets older.
• The land can also play a part. Well drained flat pasture will be less likely to be dug, than bumpy wet ground that is easier to get a snout under.

We graze out kunes in the fields in Summer and restrict this grazing in the Winter months. If any pig starts to dig, it is either moved to a different area, or restricted to a smaller enclosure.

Is it best to have males or females?

We sell all our male piglets after they have been castrated at 2-3 weeks of age. This means that they grow up to be the same size and nature as if they were female.
Occasionally 2 females kept together, who never breed, can get grumpy with each other once a month. So many people choose either 2 castrated males, or a castrated male and a female.
Females and castrated males can be mixed in any combination without it making any difference.
You should never buy a whole boar unless you are going to start breeding on a larger scale. They still can be friendly loving pigs, but can be a bit territorial, stronger and require a more experienced pig owner.

Can they be kept alone or in groups?

It is always best to keep kunes together. They are very sociable creatures and will get lonely and suffer if kept isolated. Two or more is a good number. Very occasionally people happily keep a single kune as a house pet that gets frequent attention, and possibly the company of other animals.

Are they safe with children?

Kunes are very trustworthy and enjoy attention and human contact. In common with dogs and all animals it is sensible to supervise children. Our children are not left alone with our pigs (or the cat).

Can kunes live with other animals?

Definately. We graze ours with sheep, and I have seen them in horse padocks and running outside with the family dog. Most animals will be a little unsure at first, but will soon get used to them. The only time kunes might need separating is while other animals are born or being fed.

How much do they cost?

Castrated males are £100, and females £150.

How do I buy one?

Do you sell whole boars or breeding pairs?

Can you ship them overseas?

We can. The best way to do this is using specialist agents who handle the paperwork and travel arrangements. You will need to contact someone in your country to get a quote.