Sacramento, California – A Mini Vietnamese potbelly pig named Merlin is captivating the internet, not just with his adorable appearance, but with his ability to “talk” using a custom-built communication system. The four-year-old pig has amassed a record-breaking following on Instagram, demonstrating a level of intelligence and emotional expression that is challenging perceptions of animal cognition.
Merlin’s journey to internet fame began in March 2022 when his owner, Mina Alali, adopted him as a three-month-old piglet. Alali, already an animal lover with a rescued bearded dragon named Mochi, quickly recognized Merlin’s remarkable learning capabilities. She began experimenting with communication buttons, inspired by similar techniques used with dogs, and quickly discovered Merlin’s aptitude for expressing his wants and feelings.
Today, Merlin utilizes around 25 buttons, each programmed with a different word or phrase, to communicate with Alali. He doesn’t simply ask for snacks; he conveys emotions like “happy” and even expresses frustration, exhibiting what Alali describes as “toddler-style” tantrums when his desires aren’t met. This unique form of communication has resonated with a massive online audience, garnering Merlin over 1.1 million followers on Instagram – a Guinness World Record for the most Instagram followers for a pig, confirmed on March 14, 2026, according to National Today.
Alali shares Merlin’s story and training progress on Instagram (@merlinthepig) and TikTok (@mina.alali), where he’s become the central figure in a diverse “flock” of animals. This includes domesticated rats, a dog, two rescued steers who reside on a nearby farm, a bearded dragon, and even a pigeon rescued from prison named “Al Capone.” Alali emphasizes that her home is a peaceful and loving environment where all creatures coexist harmoniously, interacting daily and feeling safe.
The Science Behind the Buttons
Merlin’s ability to use the buttons isn’t simply about associating sounds with rewards. Alali explains that Merlin demonstrates a genuine understanding of the concepts behind the words. He uses the buttons to express complex thoughts and feelings, challenging the conventional understanding of pig intelligence. This has sparked conversations about animal cognition and the emotional capacity of animals, particularly those often viewed as livestock. Alali hopes her videos demonstrate that farm animals are capable of the same emotional depth as companion animals like dogs and cats.
The method Alali uses with Merlin was inspired by similar training techniques used with other animals, such as Bunny the Dog, who also utilizes a button-based communication system. Using food as positive reinforcement, Merlin quickly mastered the buttons, demonstrating a remarkable capacity for learning.
More Than Just a Viral Sensation
Merlin’s growing popularity extends beyond entertainment. Alali has noted that Merlin’s content provides support for many of his followers who are dealing with mental health challenges. The celebratory Instagram post announcing Merlin’s Guinness World Record highlighted this positive impact, emphasizing the power of animal companionship and the joy that Merlin brings to his audience. USA TODAY featured a video showcasing Merlin’s communication skills, further amplifying his reach.
Alali’s journey with Merlin is documented on TikTok, where she shares glimpses into their daily life and the unique dynamics of their multi-species household. A recent TikTok video shows a typical “afternoon adventure” with Merlin in Sacramento, highlighting their bond and the joy they find in exploring the city together.
Looking ahead, Alali and Merlin plan to continue creating engaging content that showcases Merlin’s communication abilities and educates followers about the intelligence and emotional capacity of pigs. Their function is not only entertaining but also serves as a powerful reminder of the complex inner lives of animals and the importance of recognizing their sentience.
What do you think about Merlin’s ability to communicate? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
