When it comes to raising a pig, whether it’s for a show or for profit, the environment you keep them in can be a determining factor in whether or not you succeed.

There are many different systems for pig housing, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Obviously the number of pigs you have, as well as the size of the pig (or pigs) will impact your decision.

Today, we’re going to focus on a small operation of 2-4 pigs.

The Goal of Any Pig Housing

Regardless of operation size, a proper housing setup should be a relatively clean environment that keeps your pigs cool in the warm months, while making sure they’re warm and dry when winter comes. As long as you’re smart and responsible, you can make just about any set up work.

If your pigs are safe, healthy, and comfortable, you’re doing a great job.

The Setup

Now that you have your goals established, it’s time to discuss the criteria your house needs to have.

In addition to having some degree of temperature control, it needs to supply water without making the floor a wet mess, and it needs to provide proper amounts of feed.

If you’re in doors, ventilation is very important. Inside or outside, you’ll need to be able to remove manure to prevent disease and decay. If you’re setting up housing for just 2-4 pigs, I would suggest an individual coop with a pen and a slatted wood apron around the front.

Wood slats work best for the flooring, as steel and fiberglass tend to be slippery.

The entire enclosure is built on skids so when manure begins to build up, you can simply tow the entire structure to a new spot and easily dispose of the manure. Wherever you place it, make sure that shade is available so that your pigs aren’t sitting directly under the sun.

This setup is generally recommended just for summer projects. As wood slats are worn down, they become slick. Also, with wood slats, pigs’ toes generally won’t wear down, so you may need to trim them.

If you’re keeping your pigs on a concrete surface, make sure there is a dry, clean area for them to sleep and rest. Also, you’ll have to be much more active in the removal of manure.

This is Only the Beginning

If you’re setting up pig housing for the first time, it’s best to find an experienced mentor from your area to give professional guidance. For more advice on pig housing, feeding, cleaning, farrowing, and much more, make sure to check out the book Doc Sanders Goes Whole Hog.