Anime is rich with a diverse array of animal characters, ranging from the adorable mascots seen alongside magical heroines to the fearsome beasts that challenge valiant knights and sorcerers. Regardless of their role—be it a companion in battle, a source of comic relief, or a catalyst for drama—animals infuse an engaging dimension into the narratives.
One notable aspect of anime is its ability to portray exaggerated and whimsical expressions, contributing to the delightful representation of various creatures, particularly pigs. Their charming features—rounded pink faces, distinctive upturned noses, shiny black hooves, and corkscrew tails—help solidify their status as some of the most recognizable animals in the anime medium. Below, we delve into a selection of the most memorable porcine characters in anime.
Update as of December 29, 2024 by Mark Sammut: Pigs have become unexpected staples in anime, with numerous examples that outnumber traditional expectations. We have included two additional noteworthy figures to this dialogue on iconic anime pigs.
10. Pig
Butareba: The Story of a Man Who Turned into a Pig
While Butareba may not rank highly in terms of quality, it merits attention for its unconventional protagonist: a pig. Typically, pigs in anime serve as secondary or humorous characters, especially in shonen narratives, where they often exist merely for comedic effect.
However, Butareba takes a unique approach as the titular pig embarks on a bizarre isekai journey, reincarnated as a pig in a fantastical land filled with eccentricities. His encounter with Jess, a girl on a perilous quest, may lead to unexpected alliances. Although the series starts off poorly, it gradually uncovers a few intriguing concepts.
9. Napoleon
School Rumble
In School Rumble, Harima’s pet pig Napolean captures hearts with his undeniable cuteness. This pint-sized piglet, characterized by his short legs and rounded belly, embodies the whimsicality of childhood ideas about pigs.
Despite the presence of other exaggerated characters, such as Pyotr the giraffe, Napolean remains a simple, lovable companion, content to grunt for food and occupy a cozy corner of Harima’s life, making his gentle presence a vital part of the show’s charm.
8. Puchi’s Grunty
.hack//SIGN
Within the immersive world of .hack//SIGN, players encounter a variety of creatures, including the adorable Grunty—pigs native to the game universe. Unfortunately, Puchi proves to be a negligent caretaker of her Grunty, often abandoning her responsibility at the first sign of difficulty.
When she persuades Tsukasa to look after her sick Grunty, Tsukasa bravely embarks on a dangerous quest to obtain a remedy. Although Puchi fails her pet, Tsukasa’s dedication to the Grunty showcases the compassion found in this evolving narrative.
7. Bonnie
Bleach
Bonnie, Ganju Shiba’s spirited boar from the hit series Bleach, not only stands out due to her fierce face but also her vibrant personality. This iconic pig is notorious for her fierce yet endearing demeanor.
Despite her limited screen time, Bonnie adds a memorable touch to the dynamic of Ichigo and his companions, becoming a beloved figure within the fan community and even gaining playable status in several video games.
6. Ryoga Hibiki (Pig Form)
Ranma ½
Although Ryoga Hibiki transforms into a pig when wet, he remains one of the most humorous elements of Ranma ½. As P-Chan, he navigates numerous comedic situations, despite his human form displaying frustrating tendencies.
When around Akane, his softer side emerges, and his accidental role as her pet leads to amusing and heartfelt moments throughout their adventures.
5. Hawk
The Seven Deadly Sins
The Seven Deadly Sins encapsulates what makes a shonen series compelling—engaging plots, humor, drama, and rich character arcs. Central to its appeal is Hawk, a delightful talking pig whose insatiable appetite offers both comic relief and memorable quotable moments.
Hawk’s antics not only contribute to the humor but also highlight the series’ lovable nature, particularly after he undergoes an adorable transformation later in the storyline.
4. Watch
Naruto
Naruto introduces Tonton, Tsunade’s steadfast ninja pig, who personifies loyalty and dedication. Although Shizune typically cares for her, Tonton actively aids during critical moments, showcasing resolve during the Fourth Shinobi World War.
While Tonton doesn’t speak in a human sense, her unspoken bond and genuine emotional connection with Tsunade emphasize the importance of loyalty, securing her place among the most beloved characters.
3. Okkoto
Princess Mononoke
In contrast to the typical portrayal of pigs in anime, Okkoto, the boar god from Princess Mononoke, emerges as a powerful leader and warrior. As the head of the Kyuusyu tribe, Okkoto fights valiantly to protect the forest against industrialization.
Despite facing blindness, his character exemplifies strength and resilience, redefining the limits of what a pig character can be within storytelling.
2. Bots
Clannad
In Clannad, Botan stands out, not just for her adorable appearance but for her jovial catchphrase, “Puhi-Puhi,” endearing her to fans. Kyou’s pet boar is known for her larger-than-life personality, especially her vehement dislike for Ryou, stemming from a comical misunderstanding.
With her large expressive eyes and extraordinary capabilities—including the ability to disguise herself as a plush toy—Botan captures the hearts of many within the anime community.
1. Oolong
Dragon Ball
In the world of anthropomorphic characters, Oolong from Dragon Ball shines as a distinctive figure. This shapeshifting pig initially joins Goku and Bulma in their quest for the Dragon Balls, showcasing both comedic flair and cleverness.
Although his later appearances become sporadic, Oolong remains a fan favorite for his unique abilities and delightful wardrobe choices, securing his legacy as one of the most memorable pigs in anime history.
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