How to Breed Stud Pigs

When you start a breeding program with pigs you want to start out on the right foot. You need stud pigs that are purebred, average in conformation, growth and with minimal back fat. When you select gilts, make sure that you purchase them from a reputable breeder that keeps good records. You also need a selection of stud pigs for your sows, at least two for 20 sows. The selection is more for size than anything, you do not want to breed a small stud pig to a huge sow or vice versa. With two different-sized stud pigs, and a spare in case one is ill, you should be ready to breed your pigs.

Things You'll Need

  • 10- by 10-ft. breeding pen
  • 3- by 3-ft. plywood panel
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Instructions

    • 1

      Pick a sow that is the same size as the stud pig, especially if it is a young stud. You do not want the sow to intimidate the stud or the stud to crush the sow.

    • 2

      Place the stud in the breeding pen for several minutes to let him get comfortable. Spend time in the pen and talk to the stud in a low voice so he knows you are there and is comfortable with your presence. Have the plywood panel within reach for later when you introduce the sow.

    • 3

      Add a sow in heat to the breeding pen. Be present while the two interact, and have the plywood panel near in case either pig decides to fight with the other. Use the panel to separate them. Otherwise, you are there to help direct the stud by softly leading him in the direction of the sow. If the sow is ready she will allow the stud to breed her.

    • 4

      Allow the two pigs to interact after they breed for a few minutes and then separate them. Do not allow the stud to re-breed the sow.

    • 5

      Breed full-grown stud pigs three times a week at the most. A young stud should only breed two times a week. The earliest to start breeding stud pigs is 8 months old.

    • 6

      Keep accurate record of breed dates, what stud was bred to which sow, if the two actually bred, and expected date of birth for the piglets. Make notes of litter sizes, if the sow did not conceive after breeding, age of the pigs, and any other notes that will help you manage your herd. Look over your records on a regular basis to help you make culling decisions.

    • 7

      Cull stud pigs and sows that become too large. By the time a stud pig is 3 years old he should be replaced by a younger stud. Lameness, lack of production (small litters), disease, not being able to carry a litter to term and lack of milk are all reasons to cull hogs from your herd.