How to Tie Up a Hog

Hog-tying has become synonymous with tying an object or person up so he cannot move. However, the basis for this common saying is a literal translation of the two words themselves -- tying a live pig, or hog. Pigs have been a part of food culture for over a thousand years and are the oldest domesticated livestock in the world, according to the Cambridge World History of Food. Because of this, the method of tying a pig has become common in everyday culture and on a farm for restraining animals or preparing them for slaughter.

Things You'll Need

  • Thick rope
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Push the hog down so it is on its side, on the ground. Hold the animal, using the neck to keep it from standing.

    • 2

      Push the front legs together. Tie the front ankles together, above the bone, using the rope and performing a simple knot.

    • 3

      Grasp the back legs and hold them together at the ankles. Bring them up to the front legs.

    • 4

      Tie the rope from the front legs around the back legs, securing it tightly.

    • 5

      Wrap the rope around all four legs once more, if desired, to create secure fastenings.