Breed Standard Type B

The Kunini Pig (Type B) is a small pig resembling a Kunekune. It is a cross Kunekune and Juliana.  

“The Kunekune Pig is a delightful breed of swine once near certain extinction.  They were only found in New Zealand and kept by the Maori people.  They are known for their extremely laid back, docile, friendly personalities.”

“The Kunekune pig developed into its present form in New Zealand, although the breed is of Asian origin as indicated by DNA analysis. During most of the period these pigs have been in New Zealand they were kept almost solely by Maori communities, and were to a large extent unknown by Europeans. It is believed they were introduced very early in the European period, probably by whalers or traders, in the early 1800s. A combined excursion in 1984, by Staglands Wildlife Reserve and Willow Bank Wildlife Reserve, led to 18 animals being collected; these animals formed the basis of a captive breeding program. Most of the Kunekune pigs found in New Zealand today are descended from that original 18. They are now widely spread throughout New Zealand, with an active society supporting them; in 2004 it was estimated that there were some 5000 animals in the country, both registered and unregistered. Kunekunes have also been exported to the United Kingdom, the United States, and as far as the European continent.”

“Kunekune pigs are relatively small and highly distinctive, characterized physically by a short-legged, dumpy build, pot tummy, short upturned nose, and a generally fat, roundabout appearance. (The Polynesian word ‘Kunekune’ simply means ‘plump’.) A unique feature of the Kunekune are the pire pire (tassels) hanging from their lower jaw (about 4 cm long). But not all purebreds have tassels. Their legs are short and their bodies are short and round. Temperament-wise they are delightful, being placid, very friendly, and easy to maintain. They thrive on human company, and are extremely popular as pets.”

“The Juliana thought to originate in Europe through selective breeding of various kinds of pigs. The Juliana Pig, also known as the Miniature Painted Pig, is small, spotted, and conformationally sound. It should not exhibit a pronounced pot belly or sway back, should have a long snout, and be slight in frame. Temperament is of the utmost importance since the Juliana has been specifically bred to work with humans. While the Juliana breed is reputed to be quite old it is unsubstantiated as to whether the modern Juliana pig is of the same ancestry. Regardless of ancestry the modern Juliana more closely resembles the description of the original Juliana than any other breed today. It is the goal of breeders to produce offspring that consistently exhibits the characteristics of the original Juliana pig.”

Kunini are easy to handle for first time owners. They do not tend to root as much as other breeds. Extremely easy to train due to their advanced intelligence. 

General appearance: The Kunini pig is a small . It closely resembles a smaller version of a Kunekune pig then it does the Juliana pig. Physically the Kunini pig Type B is a short legged, dumpy build, pot tummy, short upturned/dished snout. A generally fat, roundabout appearance.

Head: The Kunini pig face should be broad and dished, a short to medium snout. Teeth suitable for grazing. The ears should be pricked or flopped, inclined forward. The vision should be unobstructed, (except by forward inclined ears)

Body: The shoulders of the Kunini pig should be level and in proportion, chest moderately wide between the legs, and well-rounded hams. The back should be strong, level or slightly arched. 

Legs: The Kunini pig legs should be straight, well set, able to support the size. Pasterns short and springy. The ability to walk well with a good straight action. Feet should be strong, closed and even, bearing in mind the age and size of the Kunini.

Tail: The Kunini pig tail coils. A natural tail, set high.

Color: The coat may be any color or texture. 

Size: The overall weight of the pig should be such that it is comfortable and able to run. Kunini are generally 15 – 18’’ tall. The Kunini are generally smaller than the Vietnamese Pot Bellied Pig.

Sexual Characteristics: A sow should have at least 10 evenly spaced teats. A boar should exhibit masculine characteristics and 10 evenly spaced teats. 

Temperament: Placid Nature.

Wattles: Preferably two, well-formed and well attached. One or none are permissible.