Characteristics of Spot Pigs

Old Spot pigs feature prominent personality traits, such as a strong maternal instinct and self-sufficient attitude. Originally from the Berkeley Vale region of Gloucestershire, England, Old Spots eventually made their way over to the United States. Although the breed enjoyed popularity in England and the United States, Old Spots have faced extinction twice in more recent years.

  1. Body Fat Ratio and Hardy Build

    • Old Spot pigs are naturally heavy, stocky pigs. They feature a higher body fat ratio than other pig breeds. With their meaty bodies, Old Spots were once highly sought after for their meat. As people became more health conscious, Old Spot pigs dwindled in popularity. Old Spot pigs feature a stocky, hardy build that enables them to withstand harsh weather. Old Spots are thick and feature a full belly and flank. They have long backs and a broad loin area. Healthy Old Spot pigs feature strong, straight legs. They are an ideal pig to keep outside year-round, even in the snow.

    Low Maintenance

    • With their abilities to forage and graze, Old Spot pigs are relatively easy to care for. Old Spots easily find their own food and were once called "cottage pigs" or "orchard pigs" due to their tendency to eat whey left over from cheese making and apples that fell from trees. Farmers and owners of Old Spots find that the pigs live well from grazing pastures and do not need require supplemental feed.

    Physical Features

    • Genuine Old Spot pigs feature white, smooth skin and large, clearly defined black spots. Old Spot pigs feature ears that are well set apart on the head and droop down to the front toward the snout. Hair on the pig is silky and straight. A healthy Old Spot has at least 14 teats on the underbelly that are evenly spaced and begin toward the front of the underbelly.

    Personality Traits

    • Old Spot pigs are extremely docile and intelligent. They are an ideal pig for first time owners due to their self sufficient attitudes and their ability to quickly learn. Sows have strong maternal instincts and often breed at an older age than other breeds. Due to their strong maternal instincts, sows have the ability to raise large litters.