The mangalica pig has become quite famous from the 90’s until now, so much so that some think it is a montage due to its peculiar appearance. This characteristic is given by its curly coat with a woolly texture, similar to that of a sheep. When they are puppies, the coat is not so curly but it already has that characteristic wool look, as seen in the gallery below. His playful and affectionate character has made him a good pet, if we have space for it. It is not as popular as other breeds, such as the Vietnamese pig, but it is well known.
The mangalica belongs to the same trunk to which the Iberian pig belongs. Therefore, it comes from that mixture between pigs of the Mediterranean branch and the semi -wild ones of the Carpathian region. Currently, Hungary continues to be its main breeding place, but we also find farms of this breed (mainly oriented to the consumption of its meat) in countries like Germany, Switzerland and Austria, as well as in Spain.
It is a difficult breed to keep because it only has between five and eight pups per litter, unlike other more common pig breeds, which have between twelve or fourteen. It is estimated that at the end of the 1980s there were only about 200 mangalica pigs on farms in Hungary. It was then that a geneticist bought the remaining specimens and took on the task of conserving and perpetuating this breed.
According to its breeders, the mangalica pig can be raised as a domestic animal; in fact, they often say that their character is similar to that of a dog, playful and affectionate with their own. It will be a good companion for the family as long as we have adequate space for the animal to be comfortable and happy.
Although it is already more common to have a pig as a pet, it must be borne in mind that not all people can live with this animal. Due to its affectionate nature and intelligent nature , the pig can be a great pet, as long as we have the adequate space and the necessary capacities for its care.
In any case, whether or not you are considering having a Mangalica as a pet, we bring you some curiosities about this breed.
