American Guinea Hog — breed guide
The small black homestead hog: famously mellow, fattens on pasture and scraps, ideal first pig.
At a glance
- Group
- heritage pig
- Size
- Medium
- Weight
- 70–130 kg (154–287 lb)
- Life span
- 10–15 years
- Coat
- Coarse black bristles, sometimes with a curly wave
Living with a American Guinea Hog
- Low energy — happy with gentle daily exercise.
- Almost no grooming.
- Light shedding.
- Quick to learn.
- Quiet.
- Good with children.
- Gets along with other dogs.
- Typically lives happily with a cat.
- Not well suited to a flat — space, exercise need or voice works against it.
- A reasonable choice for a first-time owner.
- Average heat tolerance.
- Handles cold well.
Temperament
Docile · Thrifty · Homestead-calm
Health to watch
- Obesity (thrifty genes)
- Overgrown hooves
Owner-logged information shared via Leash Life is not veterinary advice; ask your vet about screening for these.
Did you know
No relation to the guinea pig — a rare American homestead hog saved from near-extinction.
Questions people ask
Is a American Guinea Hog good with kids?
Generally yes. American Guinea Hogs are usually good with children when raised with them and given their own quiet space.
Is a American Guinea Hog good with cats?
Usually yes. American Guinea Hogs typically settle well with a resident cat — introduce them slowly and give the cat a high perch and a way out of the room.
How much exercise does a American Guinea Hog need?
A gentle daily walk.
Can a American Guinea Hog handle hot weather?
About average — use normal hot-day sense.
Leash Life keeps a American Guinea Hog's day — walks, meals, meds, weight — in one shared feed for the whole household, and warns on the walk weather this breed can't take. Free to start.