Raising pigs on the homestead can be a fulfilling and profitable endeavor, providing a sustainable source of meat, valuable compost for your garden, and even land-clearing services. Pigs are intelligent, social animals that can be a joy to work with, and their versatility makes them a valuable addition to any homestead. In this guide, we will discuss various aspects of raising pigs, including choosing the right breed, housing, feeding, and health management.

Selecting your Homestead’s breeds of pigs

There are many breeds to choose from, each with its own unique characteristics and advantages. Some popular breeds for homesteaders include:

Heritage Breeds

1. Large Black
2. Gloucestershire Old Spot
3. Tamworth
4. Red Wattle

Commercial Breeds

1. Yorkshire
2. Duroc
3. Hampshire
4. Landrace

Miniature Breeds

1. Potbelly
2. Kune Kune
3. American Guinea Hog

When selecting a breed, consider factors such as size, growth rate, temperament, and the intended purpose (meat production, breeding, or as a pet). Researching and visiting local farms or breeders can help you make an informed decision.

Housing and Fencing for Pigs

Pig Shelter Requirements

1. Ventilation: Proper ventilation is essential for maintaining a healthy environment. Ensure that the pig shelter has adequate airflow without causing drafts.
2. Weather Protection: Provide a dry, draft-free space that protects pigs from rain, wind, and extreme temperatures.
3. Space and Bedding: Pigs need adequate space to move around and rest. Provide clean, dry bedding, such as straw or wood shavings, to keep them comfortable and help regulate their body temperature.
4. Accessibility and Maintenance: Design your pig shelter to allow for easy access and cleaning.

Fencing and Containment

1. Types of Fencing: Options for pig fencing include electric fencing, woven wire, or hog panels. Choose a fencing type that provides security and durability.
2. Height and Durability: Pigs are strong and can easily root under or push through weak fencing. Ensure that your fence is tall enough and sturdy enough to contain them.
3. Fencing Considerations for Specific Breeds: Some pig breeds are more likely to root or test fences than others. Research the characteristics of your chosen breed to determine the most appropriate fencing solution.

Feeding Your Pigs

Nutritional Requirements

1. Forage and Grazing: Pigs are omnivores and enjoy grazing on grasses, legumes, and other vegetation. Providing access to pasture can help meet their nutritional needs and reduce feed costs.
2. Commercial Feed: Commercial pig feed provides a balanced diet and is available in various formulations for different life stages and nutritional needs.
3. Kitchen Scraps: Pigs can also benefit from kitchen scraps, but it is essential to avoid feeding them raw meat or animal products, as these can transmit diseases.

Feeding Management and Best Practices

1. Monitoring Body Condition: Regularly assess your pigs’ body condition to ensure they are receiving adequate nutrition and not becoming overweight or underweight.
2. Preventing Overeating and Bloat: Pigs can be prone to overeating and bloat. Monitor their food intake and adjust their diet as needed to maintain a healthy weight.
3. Providing Clean Water: Ensure that pigs have access to clean, fresh water at all times.

Pig Healthcare and Preventative Measures

Regular Health Checks and Monitoring

1. Vital Signs and Body Condition: Monitor your pigs’ vital signs, such as temperature, heart rate, and respiration rate, to detect any signs of illness or distress. Regularly assess their body condition to ensure they are receiving adequate nutrition and not becoming overweight or underweight.
2. Coat and Skin Health: Check for any signs of skin irritation, parasites, or infections that may require treatment.
3. Hoof Care and Trimming: Regular hoof trimming is essential to prevent overgrowth and maintain proper foot health.

Common Health Issues and Treatment

1. Parasites: Pigs can be susceptible to internal and external parasites. Regular deworming and preventative measures can help keep parasites under control.
2. Respiratory Issues: Pneumonia and other respiratory issues can be common in pigs. Providing proper ventilation and maintaining a clean environment can help prevent these problems.
3. Digestive Issues: Pigs can experience digestive issues such as diarrhea or constipation. Monitor their diet and adjust as needed to promote healthy digestion.

Preventative Care and Vaccinations

1. Vaccination Schedules: Consult with a veterinarian to establish an appropriate vaccination schedule for your pigs to prevent common diseases.
2. Deworming: Regular deworming is essential to maintain your pigs’ health and prevent parasitic infestations.

Breeding and Raising Piglets

Breeding Considerations

1. Selecting a Sire and Dam: Choose healthy, high-quality breeding stock to produce vigorous offspring with desirable traits.
2. Timing and Mating: Monitor the female’s heat cycle and introduce the male at the appropriate time to maximize the chances of a successful mating.

Pregnancy Care

1. Nutrition and Health: Ensure that the pregnant sow receives proper nutrition and care to support a healthy pregnancy.
2. Preparing for Birth: Provide a clean, comfortable space for the sow to give birth and raise her piglets.

Newborn Care

1. Colostrum: Ensure that newborn piglets receive colostrum from their mother within the first few hours of life to provide essential nutrients and antibodies.
2. Temperature and Environment: Maintain a warm, clean environment for the piglets to prevent chilling and disease.
3. Weaning and Nutrition: Gradually transition piglets to solid feed as they grow and develop.

Harvesting and Utilizing Pig Products

Processing and Butchering

1. Timing: Determine the appropriate time to butcher your pigs based on factors such as breed, age, and desired carcass weight.
2. Processing Options: Choose between processing your pigs at home or using a professional butcher.

Cooking and Recipes

1. Cuts of Pork: Familiarize yourself with various cuts of pork and their uses in cooking.
2. Recipes: Explore a variety of delicious recipes that showcase the versatility of pork.

Utilizing Byproducts

1. Rendering Lard: Learn how to render lard from pig fat for cooking and baking.
2. Making Sausage: Discover how to make your own sausage using ground pork and seasonings.
3. Soap and Candle Making: Use rendered lard to make soap and candles for personal use or sale.

Conclusion

Raising pigs on the homestead can be a rewarding experience, offering numerous benefits such as meat, compost, and land clearing services. By selecting the right breed, providing proper housing and nutrition, and managing the health of your pigs, you can enjoy the many rewards of raising pigs on your homestead. Connecting with fellow pig enthusiasts and homesteaders can offer additional support, resources, and knowledge to help you succeed in your pig-raising journey.