How to Care for Show Pigs

Many people view pigs as dirty animals, but a well-cared-for show pig is a beautiful creature. Believe it or don't -- but do -- temperature is an important factor in caring for pigs. They need to be cool in the summer because they have sweat glands only in their snouts. Feeding, exercise and grooming are also important to caring for a show pig.

Things You'll Need

  • Water hose
  • Self-feeder
  • Pig shampoo
  • Soft brush
  • Spray bottle
  • Hard-bristle brush
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Instructions

    • 1

      Wet the pigs with a hose three times a day during the summer. A cooled pig has a bigger appetite and less stress.

    • 2

      Exercise the pig starting two months before the show. Walk the pig three times a week at a distance of half a mile. Walk your pig in the early morning or late evening in warm seasons, as pigs do not have sweat glands.

    • 3

      Feed your pigs using a self-feeder. They eat whenever they want. Hand-feed your pig after it gets approximately 170 pounds. When the pig reaches this weight, it does not have as much motivation to eat.

    • 4

      Wash your pig with pig shampoo and a soft brush. Cover your pig's ears with your hands. If water gets into a pig's ear, it can disrupt its equilibrium.

    • 5

      Spray the pig with a mist of water and brush your pig's hair with the grain. Start at the spine and brush downward. Do not use oil or powder on the hair, as it makes the pig hot.