Hoofin It Recommends

Feed

For many years, I exclusively fed my pigs another popular brand, but I've recently made the switch to Kalmbach Squeals of Joy. My policy is to only recommend feed that I personally use for my own pigs. I've noticed that Kalmbach not only has a pleasant aroma but it's also available for auto-shipment via Amazon, adding a layer of convenience I greatly appreciate.

Outdoor Housing

This outdoor sleeping option for pigs is my top recommendation, reflecting my experience with my own pigs who live outdoors. It's durable, easy to clean, and retains value, offering a practical alternative to heavier, weather-susceptible wooden shelters. Made from polyurethane, it won't rot and its light weight allows for effortless relocation. For added weather protection, I suggest using freezer door flaps over the entrance and placing the hutch in a barn stall or shed for shield against wind and elements.

For indoor pig housing advice, I recommend exploring pet pig Facebook groups, as my expertise is in outdoor setups. 

Enclosure/Fencing

Electro net fencing is an excellent choice for creating outdoor enclosures for pet pigs. It combines ease of installation, affordability, and effectiveness, making it an ideal, non-permanent fencing solution. To ensure its proper function, you'll need a copper grounding rod and an electric fence energizer rated at 0.07 Joules, in addition to the fencing itself. This setup not only keeps your pigs safely contained but also offers protection against various predators, ensuring a secure environment for your pets. The simplicity of setting up and taking down the fencing adds to its appeal, providing a versatile option for all your piggy enclosure needs.

Sorting Boards

Sorting boards are invaluable tools for pet mini pig owners, especially if you have pigs that tend to be assertive or bully others in the home, including visitors. These boards serve as a protective barrier, enabling you to safely redirect your pig's movement while shielding yourself from potential head swipes or bites. Available in various sizes and colors, sorting boards are designed with two distinct sides: one smooth and one with divots. For optimal functionality and to prevent pigs from using their snouts to grab hold and manipulate the board, it's crucial to always face the smooth side towards the pig. This ensures effective management and control, keeping both the pig and handler safe during interactions.

Weight Loss

For those looking to ensure their pet mini pigs maintain a healthy weight, the best and most proven diet has been created by Pig Luv Co., a pig sanctuary based in California. This diet is specifically tailored for overweight pigs, and following it closely can help your pig reach and maintain an ideal weight. For comprehensive details on this diet and guidance on how to implement it, I recommend visiting Pig Luv Co.'s website by tapping the image. There, you'll find all the information needed to provide your pet pig with the best possible nutrition.

Hoof Conditioner

For the care of pet mini pigs' hooves, I highly recommend using a product called Miracle Oil over traditional hoof conditioners. This oil is exceptionally efficient—a little application goes a long way. Its formulation not only conditions the hooves but also helps repel excess moisture, which is crucial since too much moisture can harm the hooves of our piggy companions. The product is packaged in a small bottle equipped with a dropper top, making the application process straightforward and mess-free. To apply, you only need 1-2 small drops at the point where the hairline meets the hoof wall, followed by a gentle rub with your finger to evenly distribute the oil. Miracle Oil is also versatile enough to be used on their pads, providing an all-around solution for your mini pig's foot care needs.

Grooming Wipes

Experience the gentle efficacy of Pogi’s Grooming Wipes, which I find exceptional for pet pigs, though they are originally marketed for dogs and cats. Made from eco-friendly bamboo fibers and free from fragrances, these large, textured wipes (8 x 9 inches) feature conditioning ingredients like Aloe Vera, Vitamin E, and Hawaiian Awapuhi. They excel in cleaning, freshening, and conditioning your pig’s coat, providing a healthy shine. Hypoallergenic and alcohol-free, these wipes are ideal for sensitive areas like faces and eyes. Whether it’s a quick touch-up between baths or after playful mud baths, Pogi’s wipes offer a safe, effective solution for daily use and travel.

Hair, Skin and Hoof Vitamin

Nature’s Bounty Hair, Skin, and Nails with Biotin is a supplement formulated for humans, but due to the remarkable similarity between pig and human metabolism and digestive systems, it may be beneficial for your piggy friends too. This supplement contains vital nutrients such as Biotin, Vitamin C, and Vitamin E, which are known to support the maintenance of healthy hair, skin, and nails. While it’s designed for human consumption, the crossover potential for pigs could help enhance their coat’s health and appearance, reflecting the close kinship in our biological makeup.

M.T.G. Oil 

MTG Oil for Piggy Skin Care: Ideal for addressing various skin issues, MTG oil serves as an effective moisturizer for your piggy’s skin. Apply it lightly after bathing to help maintain moisture and promote a healthy shine. For your convenience, MTG oil is available for purchase through Amazon. Simply tap or click on the photo on this webpage to be directed to the Amazon page for the product. Regular use of MTG oil can keep your pig’s skin supple and less prone to irritation, especially in dry conditions or for pigs with sensitive skin.

Grooming Gloves

These grooming gloves are an excellent tool for exfoliating dry skin and providing your pig with enjoyable scritches. Made with soft rubber nodules, the gloves gently remove loose hair and stimulate the skin, promoting a healthy and shiny coat. They are especially useful for pigs who love a good scratch, turning grooming sessions into a relaxing and bonding experience. The versatile design allows for thorough grooming on various parts of the pig’s body, including hard-to-reach areas. For added convenience, these gloves are easy to clean and suitable for use in both wet and dry conditions. Tap the image to find these grooming gloves on Amazon.

Water Filter

AQUA CREST RV Inline Hose Water Filter

This easy-to-use inline filter connects directly to your outdoor hose to provide clean, fresh water for your pigs (or any animals). It helps reduce harmful substances like heavy metals, iron, hydrogen sulfide, mercury, and more — all without adding harsh minerals. The granular activated carbon is made from natural coconut shells, ensuring gentle and effective filtration that supports long-term health and hydration.

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Hoof Wax

Originally formulated for horses, this natural hoof wax is perfectly safe and highly effective for use on pigs. I personally use it on all clients when addressing hoof cracks. After completing a full trim, if a crack or crevice remains, I warm a small amount between my fingers and gently work it into the area. The wax helps seal out moisture, dirt, and debris, giving the hoof the best chance to grow out healthy and strong.

Keep in mind, a crack cannot be “fixed” — it must be properly trimmed, protected, and allowed time to grow out while maintaining a consistent trim schedule.

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Medicated Shampoo

Silver Honey Medicated Shampoo

Labeled for horses but safe and gentle enough for dogs — and yes, even pigs. This medicated formula combines manuka honey and micro-silver to cleanse, soothe, and support healing for minor skin irritations or dryness. I personally use it on the extremely rare occasion I bathe one of my pigs, though I know several pig owners who use it as their go-to shampoo year-round.

It leaves the skin clean without stripping natural oils and is mild enough for sensitive skin types, making it a great option for pigs prone to flaky or itchy skin.

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GE Forged "EZ" Hoof Nippers

These are the professional-grade nippers I use for every hoof trim and are the only style I recommend for professional use. Always check that they are stamped with the GE Forged logo to confirm authenticity.

The inexpensive nippers you might find at local feed stores or online are not designed for precision trimming and should never be used on pigs. They are made with thick, low-quality steel that lacks the refined edge needed for controlled cutting. Instead of making a clean slice, these cheaper versions crush or pinch through the hoof wall, which can cause serious pain and injury. Even professional farriers avoid using them for that reason, relying instead on GE Forged or other high-quality U.S.-forged brands.

GE Forged nippers, by contrast, are crafted for accuracy and control. Their thin, razor-sharp blades slice smoothly through the hoof wall — but this same precision makes them extremely dangerous if handled without a deep understanding of hoof anatomy. Used incorrectly, they can easily cut into sensitive tissue or even bone.

For your pig’s safety, hoof trimming should always be left to a trained and experienced trimmer. Preferably me. 

Dremel 8250 Rotary Tool - 12v battery

This is the only rotary tool I use and recommend. The Dremel 8250 offers excellent safety, control, and versatility compared to other rotary tools that use large sanding or cutting discs. Its cordless design provides consistent power without the risk of over-torque or sudden kickback that can occur with higher-speed, bulkier models.

For all hoof shaping and finishing, I pair it with ½-inch 60-grit sanding drums, which allow precise, safe, and smooth results for every trim.

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