When we first decided to add pigs to the homestead, I’ll admit — I was a little nervous. I had visions of giant hogs running me down! 🤣
Then my husband said look at the Kune Kune pig, and everything I thought I knew about pigs changed.
These little charmers are the gentle souls of the pig world — short, round, friendly, and full of personality. The kind of pig that’ll follow you around like a dog, grunt for attention, and flop over dramatically for a belly rub the second you look their way.
🌿 A Bit of Kune Kune History
The name Kune Kune (pronounced “koo-nee koo-nee”) actually means “fat and round” in Māori — and honestly, it fits them perfectly. These pigs hail from New Zealand, where they were traditionally kept by the Māori people. By the 1970s, they were nearly extinct, but thanks to a few dedicated breeders, they’ve bounced back in a big way and made their way to homesteads all over the world.
🏡 What Makes Them So Special
Kune Kunes are small pigs with big personalities. Fully grown, they weigh between 100 and 250 pounds — sturdy but manageable. They come in every color combination imaginable — black, ginger, cream, white, and spotted like little cows. Some even sport adorable chin tassels called piri piri, which give them an extra dose of charm.
But here’s the best part: Kune Kunes are true grazers. Unlike most pigs that love to root and till everything in sight, these pigs prefer to munch on grass. That means your pastures should stay intact, your yard doesn’t look like a battlefield, and you get your very own eco-friendly lawn crew.
🌾 Easy Keepers for the Small Homestead
Because Kune Kunes can thrive mostly on grass, they’re one of the most affordable pigs to keep. A bit of supplemental grain, veggies, or fruit keeps them happy and healthy. They also don’t require massive barns or complicated setups — just a simple shelter for shade and protection, some fencing, and room to roam.
They’re quiet, calm, and social, which makes them perfect for small homesteads. My Kune Kunes love to greet me every morning with cheerful grunts, waiting patiently (well, mostly patiently) for their breakfast.
❤️ Personalities You Can’t Resist
Every Kune Kune has a unique personality. We have one who thinks she’s a goat, until we moved her over with the other pigs. We also had a few that think they are better off with the cows. No matter how many times we moved them out of the cows pasture they decided thats where they belong. The cows don’t mind at all, in fact I believe my heifer loves them more than she does anything else. 🤣 They’re affectionate, curious, and genuinely seem to enjoy human company.
They’re the kind of animal that turns daily chores into moments of joy. There’s nothing quite like hearing those happy snorts as they waddle over to say hello.
🐖 Thinking About Breeding?
If you ever decide to raise Kune Kunes, you’re in for a treat. They’re wonderful mothers, usually with small, manageable litters. They are pregnant for three months three weeks and three days. ( 116 to 118 days ) Piglets are sturdy, friendly, and ridiculously cute — tiny versions of their round parents, complete with little grunts and wiggles.
Handled early, they grow into some of the most even-tempered pigs you could ask for. And honestly, watching them grow up on pasture is one of the most rewarding parts of homesteading life.
🌞 Why I’ll Always Have Kune Kunes
For me, Kune Kunes aren’t just another homestead animal — they’re part of the family. They make me laugh daily, with learning to sit and to do other tricks. They’re proof that pigs can be both practical and downright delightful.
If you’ve ever wanted pigs but were intimidated by the idea, start with Kune Kunes. They’re gentle, friendly, and while they can be easy on the land remember they are pigs and while I have a few that are wonderful. I also have a few that like to root up the bottom of the fence! Yes I said it. While kune kune are known as the pig breed that won’t do this, you have to keep in mind when they want those weeds or grain on the other side of the fence they will be the first to show you that your fence wasn’t made for them! There are many different options for what to do. Do your research for what fencing you think will work for your homestead.
We have our fencing lined with wood at the bottom. Its been working great and even started doing this idea in other areas of our homestead. So remember — Life’s better with Kune Kunes — they mow your grass, steal your heart, and occasionally your snacks. 💚🐷
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