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The fundamentals of pig farming
English editorial edition of an archived AGYE article. Historical products, figures and programmes reflect the original publication. Read the original French article ↗
Pig farming combines careful selection of breeding stock with husbandry methods suited to the farm. Production includes raising piglets to weaning and growing pigs for meat and processed products. Each stage requires attention to health, feeding, housing and welfare.
Selecting breeding animals
Desired traits can include growth rate and resistance to disease. Once breeding stock is selected, the farmer must establish effective management at every production stage and monitor performance continuously.
Choosing a husbandry system
Pigs may be housed indoors or outdoors according to climate, facilities and the farm’s objectives. Outdoor access can provide space and opportunities to explore. Every system still requires careful management of reproduction, health and welfare.
Genetics and inheritance
Selection can improve production efficiency, disease resistance and meat quality. Consider growth rate, litter size and feed conversion, while maintaining genetic diversity and avoiding excessive inbreeding.
Health and disease management
Isolation and biosecurity help reduce the spread of disease. Respiratory problems are an important concern; good hygiene and appropriate care support animal health. Sick animals need suitable veterinary attention and measures that protect the rest of the herd.
Nutritional needs
Rations must meet energy, protein and other nutritional requirements and comply with feed quality and hygiene expectations. Feeding frequency and composition should suit the animals. Provide continuous access to suitable drinking water.
Set clear selection objectives
Decide which traits the farm seeks to improve, such as weight, growth, meat quality or disease resistance. Review these objectives as market requirements and consumer expectations change.
Keep accurate records
Track individual weight, growth, intake and reproductive performance. Analysing these records helps identify high-performing animals and useful trends, supporting more informed selection and management decisions.
Improve through repeated assessment
Regular evaluation, appropriate selection and techniques such as artificial insemination can help develop desired traits over time. Combine this work with consistent health management.
Clear objectives, accurate information, suitable nutrition and continuous attention to welfare provide the foundations for a productive, sustainable pig enterprise.