Raising a pig for show is about more than winning trophies. The real reward is the experience of developing and displaying quality swine. It’s all about progress and growth, and those are two things that have to be measured.

As soon as you purchase a pig, you should start keeping tabs on weight and feed consumption. Don’t forget that every state require a veterinarian client patient relationship (VCPR) to ensure verification that pork requiring treatment do not have any antibiotic residues prior to exhibition and going to market. A VCPR is essential from the time the pig is acquired. Of course every pig must be clear of any residues prior to any exhibits. Also ensure you know the reg’s for growing pigs. New regulations went into effect Jan. 1st 2017 on the requirments for orall medicating pigs to prevent or treat pigs. Check with your veterinarian when you first acquire a pig..

What’s the Key to Success in Raising a Pig for Show?

It starts by selecting a quality pig (which is a different topic altogether). As soon as you have your pig, begin to build a bond with it. Let it become familiar with you specifically. Hand feeding it always help it acclimate. It needs to recognize and trust you.

If your pig seems unresponsive to your gestures after it has become acclimated to make sure it isn’t sick. Check its eyes, temperature (normal temp is 101-103), feces and appetite, examine its skin for blemishes, and if necessary, consult a vet. Pigs aren’t very efficent at staying cool so on hot days its temperature may be higher. Its best to check the temperature early in the cool of the morning.

The Road to the Show

The next phase of how to raise a pig for show starts once the pig is around 150lbs. You can’t wait till a few days before the show and expect it to be ready. Start a few weeks out. Get the pig walking and moving around on different terrains. Practice your show ring technique. Get a regimen going.

And make sure you’re weighing it every month as nearly all shows have a weight requirement.

Start grooming it. Once you get a week out, wash it a few times. Brush the pig. Check your show’s rules regarding clipping its hair or oiling the pig at the show. And keep exercising it.

It’s Showtime 

As soon as you’re settled in at the exhibition, you should set up, get your fans in place, and get used to the surroundings.

When it’s time to bring your pig to the show arena, be patient. Unlike some animal competitions, you may know that pigs aren’t haltered for shows. Your pig is in an unfamiliar environment with a lot of noise, animals, and moving objects. It’ll need to adjust. It is a smart move to exercise your pig in the show arena after hours.

Keep a close eye on your pig’s condition. Shows and fairs tend to take place during some of the hottest time of the year. There is often a risk of developing heat stress.

And don’t forget to take care of yourself. Try to relax and have a good time. Make sure you eat and stay hydrated. And dress professionally. Your pig isn’t the only thing people are watching.

After the Show’s Over

If your pig wins, it may have to undergo some mandated state tests to ensure there was no foul play. Win or lose, when the show is over, the next thing on your agenda will be the auction. Keep the pig healthy and clean, and your pig will be sold for a nice premium

Be sure to thank the person who buys it. Some people will even put together a little buyer’s gift basket for whoever purchases their pig. It’s something to consider.

Once that’s all said and done, it’s time to gear up for the next year of pig shows, make notations on all that you’ve learned from the past show.

For more information on how to raise a pig for show, make sure to check out Doc Sanders Goes Whole Hog. Chapter 13 covers pig shows in great detail.