Instructions
Learn about the reproductive capability and natural habits of your hog breeding stock. Wild European hogs typically only produce one litter of four to six piglets per year in the wild, but excellent conditions sometimes permit up to three litters per year.
Separate the male and female hogs, preferably in segregated pens. European hogs reach sexual maturity during their first year of life, and mingling hogs can negatively impact your breeding plans.
Start your breeding program with quality stock from reputable breeders. You will need at least one boar (male) and at least ten or so sows (females). Some European hog breeders will sell you "starter herds" of young hogs. You can also purchase older, larger individual animals from breeders. Note that some states have laws regarding hog transportation and may require vaccinations and vet checks to be performed before you receive your animals.
Isolate your breeding stock in clean, comfortable quarters for at least a month. Use this isolation period to acclimate new stock to your environment: temperature changes, the smell of different soil, and sunlight can all disturb a boar's reproductive cycle if it are not accustomed to it.
Monitor the health of your breeding stock. If any of the hogs are not adjusting well or seem sick, contact the breeder immediately.
Provide hogs with them a large area in which to roam and a warm, clean barn for farrowing. If you are importing new boars to your established breeding herd, you need to be especially aware of diseases.To prevent infection in your herd, the NSIF says new boars should have three or four weeks of fence line contact with non-pregnant females, so the females may contract any new microorganisms brought in by the boars, and the boars may be introduced to any microflora at your facility.
Ensure the breeding capability of your European hogs. Note that the stress of transport can affect fertility for up to eight weeks. Test breed a few females and check them in a few weeks to see if they come into heat again. Do not become frustrated if your first test breeding doesn't take. Exposure to micoorganisms or climates at your facility may produce temporary infertility.
How to Breed European Hogs
To develop an excellent European hog breeding program, the National Swine Improvement Foundation (NSIF) suggests you focus on good breeding population management and nutrition of breeding stock. Good hog breeding practices ensure the longevity and fertility of stock, and increase the number of live births per litter. European hogs, also called European wild boars, European boars, and Russian boars are known to inhabit in lots of different areas due to their sturdy nature and omnivorous diet, making them appropriate to breed in a variety of climates.