FAQ

Q - I have some land that I would like to keep pigs on, is it big enough?

A - Pigs need a relatively small piece of land to live in ( approx 674 sq metres per sow) but remember that free range pigs will soon dig up a designated paddock and during the winter this will become poached and difficult for you to walk in. Sectioning off an acre with electric fencing will mean you have access to fresh paddocks. Clean paddock will also mean less worms and parasites. I recommend you rest your divided acre after 12 months of use and section off another piece of land.

Q - Will electric fence keep my pigs in?

A - If a pig has not seen electric fencing before be prepared for quite a few training sessions. In my experience, meeting the fence for the first time may produce the desired effect of giving the pig a shock, but then your startled pig will probably run straight through it. Put it back in a try again.

Q - Should I keep my pigs free range all year round?

A - Not necessarily. Our wet winters can mean its hard work for the pigs to stay warm and its hard work for you. If you have a suitable place to bring your pigs in, that is draft proof and waterproof everyone will benefit. Ensure that your pigs have plenty of straw and a constant supply of water, just as they would if they were outside.

Q - What can my pigs live in?

A - Traditionally pigs live in arks made from moulded corrugated steel with or without a floor. If you are feeling adventurous you could make an ark but remember it needs to be waterproof and shielded from the elements. Turn it away from the prevailing wind

 and rain

Q - We are new to keeping pigs and don't know if we should purchase gilt or boar weaners

A - When you are just starting out with pigs people will tell you their own idea's and preferences regarding gilts and boars. I recommend that as first time pig owners you purchase a couple of boar weaners. My reasons for this are;

1) A boar should be taken to slaughter between 24-26 weeks. Having a date to take your pigs to slaughter can make taking them to the abattoir a little easier as you know that they have to go.

2) In addition, if you pick up your weaners up at 10 weeks old you will be keeping them for a relatively short time, giving you experience and an easier introduction into keeping pigs.

3)Another important reason for having to slaughter by a certain date is the need to avoid boar taint. Boar taint can cause your pork to have a very strong taste that is not palatable. It can happen because the boar has become sexually mature.

4) Keeping gilts will allow you more flexibility as to when they go for slaughter and the size they grown onto. In my experience this makes sending them to slaughter harder and could mean that you end up with pet pigs, that are unregistered and costing you lots of money.

Q - Should we just buy breeding gilts straight away to ensure that we have our own pork on a constant basis?

A - This must be given some very serious thought. Your breeding gilt ideally needs between 10-12 months to mature and then you will need to find an unrelated boar. 3 months 3 weeks 3 days later, or thereabouts,  you could have between 1-10 weaners born. Some boars and some gilts. Although they were all born from registered pigs not all, or very few, will be suitable for future breeding stock. You need to ensure that you have a market for the pigs you are producing. Feeding them can be a financial burden if they have not been sold for pork or rehomed. 

Q - What is the difference between a gilt and a sow?

A - A gilt becomes a sow when she has had her first litter of piglets

Q - How often will a gilt or sow come into season?

A - A gilt or sow should come into season every 21 days

Q - How will I know she is in season?

A - The rear end of a sow or gilt will become swollen and a darker pink.

Q - How can I be sure any breeding stock I purchase is registered?

A - When you meet the breeder make it clear that you want to purchase breeding stock that are good examples of the breed standard. If you are shown pigs that you are interested in check that they were birth notified and that they can be registered. You could ask to see the sows pedigree and if the boar is not present, his details can be found on the British Pig Association website

Q - Where can I get help if I am worried about my pigs?

A - If the health of the pig is in question firstly give your vet a call. If you then need extra support there are lots of people out there that can help or will help find out the information for you. At Penpethick Farm we offer an ongoing after service, lots of breeders will offer the same. Alternatively join the Gloucestershire Old Spot Pig Breed Club and ask questions on the forum. No question is considered daft as we have all had to ask the same questions at some time

If we have not answered your question here send us an email and we will answer you based on our knowledge and experience or will find out who can answer your question