Our pigs
Why are there pigs at Gut Aiderbichl?
Domestic pigs have been kept for meat production for several thousand years – unfortunately often under precarious conditions. Time and time again, the authorities take pigs off the farm due to inappropriate husbandry. However, there are also many people who see pigs as more than just ‘meat suppliers’ and protect them from being slaughtered. At Gut Aiderbichl, these animals find a loving forever home.
Mini pigs are becoming increasingly popular as pets, often with the idea that they will remain small for the rest of their lives. However, the cute piglets grow into full-grown pigs with very specific requirements in terms of space, occupation and care. Many of these animals have to be relinquished. At Gut Aiderbichl, they also find a species-appropriate home.
We are particularly proud of our ‘Clever Pig Lab’ under the scientific direction of Dr Marianne Wondrak. Since 2022, an entire herd of Kune-Kune pigs has been living at Gut Aiderbichl Henndorf in a specially built, modern barn. The aim of the project is to gain a better understanding of the social behaviour and cognitive abilities of pigs.
There are currently
pigs under our protection
Our pigs at a glance
We do our best to publish all rescued animals on our website as quickly as possible.
Our projects to protect pigs
Stories about our pigs
Donate for our pigs
Frequently asked questions
Species-appropriate pig husbandry is based on the animals’ natural needs. Pigs are highly social animals and require group housing, sufficient space, clearly structured areas for resting, feeding, and defecation, as well as enrichment materials such as straw or soil for rooting. Access to outdoor areas further supports movement, exploratory behavior, and social interaction.
Actual life expectancy depends strongly on housing conditions, breed, and veterinary care. Domestic pigs can live an average of 10 to 15 years when well cared for, while miniature pigs may live between 12 and 20 years. In intensive agricultural systems, however, pigs raised for meat do not reach this age, as they are usually slaughtered at around five to six months old.
Although pigs do have sweat glands, these are only minimally functional, which means they cannot effectively regulate their body temperature through sweating. Wallowing in mud helps them cool down and also protects their skin from sunburn, insects, and parasites. This behavior is biologically ingrained and an important component of their overall well-being.
No. From a behavioral biology perspective, pigs are considered very clean animals. When given enough space, they clearly separate their resting and feeding areas from their designated toileting area. Dirtiness usually results from cramped or poorly structured housing conditions, not from the animals’ natural behavior.
The term “teacup pig” is not an officially recognized breed designation, but rather a marketing term. The word “teacup” leads many people to believe that these animals will remain permanently very small—something that is biologically unrealistic. A major reason for this misconception is marketing via social media, where piglets only a few weeks old are often shown. At this age, they usually weigh only a few kilograms and appear “handbag-sized.”
As a result, many owners underestimate the actual adult size, life expectancy, and complex needs of miniature pigs. Even so-called “mini pigs” can weigh between 40 and 80 kilograms, require plenty of space, social contact with other pigs, and extensive mental stimulation. A lack of knowledge and species-inappropriate husbandry therefore often leads to pigs being surrendered to Gut Aiderbichl.
The Clever Pig Lab is a research project dedicated to studying pig behavior and intelligence. Since 2014, a research team from the Messerli Research Institute has been working with a herd of Kune Kune pigs to investigate how pigs think, learn, and organize their social environment. The pigs participate voluntarily in various cognitive tests—including touchscreen-based tasks—and are rewarded exclusively through positive reinforcement. The goal of the lab is to deepen our understanding of pigs and contribute to more species-appropriate treatment of this animal species.
Since autumn 2022, the Clever Pig Lab—under the direction of Dr. Marianne Wondrak—has been based at Gut Aiderbichl, where the pigs live in spacious outdoor enclosures and comfortable stables and continue to take part in a range of scientific projects.
“Feel Good with Kune Kune Pigs” is an animal-assisted experience at Gut Aiderbichl Henndorf that combines relaxation and mindfulness. During guided walks across the extensive pig meadows, visitors can experience the curious and gentle Kune Kune pigs up close, reduce stress, and find inner calm. Registration is required: Register now
