What does this phrase mean? "We don't rent pigs"?

Question

I seen a sign that said this, and don't know what it means.

Answer 1

The line comes from Lonesome Dove.

For more details see: http://www.godandscience.org/we_dont_rent_pigs.html

Answer 2

Actually it is from the movie Lonesome Dove. On their company sign it says that they rent horses and rigs, a common joke in those days was to ask a company that rented horses and "rigs" ( the tack equipment for riding the horse, such as the saddle, reins) and to ask to rent a "pig" instead of a "rig". Take a good look at the sign on the movie and right underneath the words " we rent horses and rigs" it says "we don't rent pigs". That's to suggest that they don't want to be bothered by foolish prank questions.

Answer 3

In Cowboy terms. PIG = A horse that can t pull it s weight i.e.. not saddle broke or trained to do the right thing. In modern terms related to Rodeo. A Bull or Bronc that does not buck resulting in a low score for the Cowboy.

Answer 4

In a business context, it means that the store only sells or rents merchandise of high quality, not necessarily a bargain.

Answer 5

It could be referring to an 'air' pig that holds gas. You know, the kind that hook up to your gas BBQ grill.