If you’ve raised a pig for show or the market, you might think you know a thing or two about how to choose a pig for breeding. After all, a healthy pig is a healthy pig, right?

Well, not exactly.

There are some distinct features you’ll want to focus on when it comes to choosing a superior breeding pig.

Don’t Focus on Muscle and Stature

When it comes to show pigs, you’re looking for muscle definition, a solid width, and a well-defined butt and thigh area. These types of pigs will produce great meat and earn you some ribbons at shows.

They won’t get you very far in breeding, however.

A breeding gilt needs strength in the legs so she can carry six to eight pregnancies to term. She’ll also be doing a lot of walking over pastures and in farrowing houses.

When examining the pig, inspect underneath to make sure she has eight fully functional nipple on each side. If a nipple is missing or inverted, this indicates a nonfunctional gland. That will hinder her ability to raise the maximum number of well-furnished babies.

Also make sure to watch out for swollen joints, swollen ears, and abscesses.

Health and health history are paramount when it comes to breeding swine. Issues the pig has now will carry over into future generations. You also want to make sure she doesn’t come from a farm with a history of dysentery, Paris, or PED.

Don’t be afraid to ask questions. If possible, get in touch with the seller’s vet.

Once you have your pig selected, you can begin the breeding process. Of course, that’s a story in itself. For pig selection, breeding guidance, artificial insemination tips, and much more, make sure to check-out my book Doc Sander’s Goes Whole Hog!