What You Need to Know About Raising Pigs: Care, Feeding, and Fun Facts
Big news from the homestead—we’ve just welcomed two brand-new additions to the family, Penelope and Phoebe, our adorable Kunekune piggies! These two sisters are already keeping us on our toes. Penelope, the overachiever of the group, is twice the size of little Phoebe (and yes, they’re the same age). It’s honestly the cutest, funniest thing. They’re only nine weeks old, but they’ve already stolen our hearts and are quickly becoming the farm’s favorite duo.
Since this is our first time raising pigs, I thought it was the perfect time to dive into all things pig care! Whether you’re thinking about adding pigs to your farm or you’re just here for some pig facts, today we’re chatting what you need to know about raising pigs—care, feeding, fun facts, and everything in between!
Why Raise Pigs?
So why raise pigs, anyway? Well, pigs are perfect animals for a homestead. Here’s why:
Meat Production: If you’re raising feeder pigs, they can provide your family with a steady supply of delicious, high-quality, homegrown pork. It doesn’t get much better than knowing exactly how your food was raised and fed. Pigs grow quickly, too, making them an efficient option for meat production. Whether it’s bacon, ham, or slow-cooked pork shoulder, you’ll have a freezer full of hearty meals to enjoy!
Low-Maintenance: Believe it or not, pigs are pretty easy to care for. They’re hardy, adaptable, and don’t require a ton of fancy equipment. Once you’ve got the basics in place—a sturdy fence, a simple shelter, and access to food and water—they pretty much handle themselves.
Land Clearing: Pigs are natural tillers. If you’ve got a patch of rough land, they’ll root it up for you in no time—free labor! Using their powerful snouts, pigs love rooting around in the dirt, which naturally clears out weeds, loosens tough soil, and preps the ground for planting.
Compost Contributors: Did you know that pigs are fantastic at reducing food waste? They’ll happily munch on leftover scraps that would otherwise go to waste. Not only does this reduce your overall food waste, but their manure can also be composted to create nutrient-rich fertilizer for your garden.
And honestly, they’re just plain fun to have around. Their little snorts, happy grunts, and playful personalities make them impossible not to love.
Pig Breeds and Their Purposes: Finding the Right Pig for Your Homestead
When it comes to raising pigs, choosing the right breed can make all the difference! Whether you're looking for a reliable meat producer, a friendly homestead grazer, or a balanced all-rounder, there's a pig breed that suits your unique needs. While we love our Kunekunes, let’s start by taking a quick look at a few other popular breeds that might be the perfect fit for your farm.
Yorkshire: The Big and Friendly Powerhouse
Size: Large (450–750 lbs for adults!)
Purpose: Meat production.
Temperament: Friendly and adaptable.
Best For: Large-scale meat production or breeders looking for a reliable, fast-growing breed.
Yorkshires are one of the most popular pig breeds in the world—and for good reason. They’re big, but they’re also surprisingly mellow and quick to adapt to their surroundings. If you’re raising pigs for meat, their rapid growth and high-quality pork make them a great choice. Their meat is leaner than some breeds, so if you’re into bacon… well, Yorkshire’s your go-to pig!
Fun Fact: Yorkshires have adorable pink coloring and perky, upright ears that make them easy to spot (and love!).
Berkshire: The Flavor King
Size: Medium to Large (600–650 lbs).
Purpose: Meat, especially premium pork.
Temperament: Docile, social, and easygoing.
Best For: Small farmers and homesteaders looking to raise gourmet pork (it’s THAT good!).
Berkshires are famous for producing some of the most delicious and highly marbled pork in the world. If you’ve ever heard of the term "Kobe beef of pigs," that’s a Berkshire! They’re perfect for small farms because they’re easy to raise, social, and don’t need a ton of specialized care. Their black coats with cute white spots on their feet, tail, and nose give them such a unique and lovable look.
Tip: If you’ve got foodies in your family—or a dream to produce high-end pork—this is the breed for you!
Tamworth: The Homestead Workhorse
Size: Medium (450–600 lbs).
Purpose: Both meat and land-clearing.
Temperament: Active, hardy, and a little independent.
Best For: Small homesteads looking for dual-purpose pigs to clear land and provide pork.
Dubbed "the bacon pig," Tamworths are famous for their ability to produce flavorful cuts of pork (especially bacon—yum!). But what sets them apart is their amazing foraging ability. These pigs were practically designed to work on your homestead. If you’ve got overgrown land, Tamworths can clear it like nobody’s business, turning tough brush into rich, tilled soil. While they can be a bit more independent and active than some breeds, their hardworking nature makes them perfect for small farms or anyone with land to clear.
Tip: Tamworths are a great choice if you want a balance of meat production and natural land clearing—with a side of delicious bacon.
Duroc: The Sturdy, Easygoing All-Rounder
Size: Medium to Large (500–800 lbs).
Purpose: Meat production and hardiness.
Temperament: Gentle and low-maintenance.
Best For: Beginners or anyone who wants a low-fuss pig that grows quickly and produces quality meat.
Durocs are the definition of laid-back. These reddish-brown beauties are one of the best breeds for beginners because they’re hardy, easy to manage, and generally really friendly. They grow quickly and efficiently, which makes them one of the top choices for meat production. While they’re a bit larger and heavier than breeds like Kunekunes, they’re not overly demanding, and their adaptable nature makes them an excellent all-purpose breed for homesteads big or small.
Fun Fact: Durocs are known for their floppy ears and deep golden-red coloring!
So, Which Breed is Right for You?
Still not sure what breed fits your needs? Here’s a quick breakdown:
If you want to focus solely on meat production, large breeds like Yorkshire or Duroc are your best bet.
For a dual-purpose pig to clear land AND provide great bacon, you just can’t beat the hardworking Tamworth.
If you’re looking for something a little more boutique or premium pork, the flavorful Berkshire is the way to go.
And, of course, if you’re like us and want a smaller, docile, family-friendly breed, Kunekunes might just win your heart.
Why We Chose Kunekunes (And What Makes Them Special)
When it came to choosing a pig breed, we knew we wanted something manageable, friendly, and fit for our family homestead. Enter Kunekune pigs! These little guys are a great beginner-friendly option for anyone new to raising pigs (like us). They are one of the most docile pig breeds out there and will stay somewhat on the smaller side for feeder pigs (about 200 lbs. when most are 700+).
Kunekunes are also excellent grazers, which means that once they’re old enough, they can free-range on pasture. That’s the plan for Penelope and Phoebe—they’ll roam the farm, living their best piggy lives while helping us keep the grass in check. They’re not here for the dinner table, though. These ladies will be the mamas to our future feeder pigs.
Fun Fact: Did you know Kunekunes are known to act just like dogs? Yep, they’ll run over to greet you, curl up on your porch for a nap, and completely steal your heart before you know it. Oh, and belly rubs? They LOVE them. These little charmers will happily flop onto their sides, close their eyes, and soak up all the love. Cuteness overload!
Pig Care Basics: What Do Pigs Need?
Pigs don’t need fancy setups or expensive gear. They’re pretty low maintenance as long as you give them the basics. Here’s what you need to know:
1. Food & Water
Pigs are all about eating. They need a balanced diet to stay healthy and happy.
What to Feed: We’re starting our girls on pig starter feed and supplementing with kitchen scraps. They LOVE corn, and I’ve heard feeding them acorns before butchering improves the meat’s flavor. If you’re raising feeder pigs, keep their diet protein-heavy for steady growth but transition to grower and finisher formulas as they get older.
Season-Specific Diets: In colder months, pigs might need more calories to stay warm. During this time, adding extra carbs or fats (like corn) to their diet can be beneficial.
Scraps They Love: Fruits, veggies, cooked pasta, and bread are all pig-approved.
List of No-Nos: While pigs can eat a lot of things, there’s a list of no-nos. No raw potatoes, no chocolate, and no avocados. You’ll also want to skip the meat, dairy, and anything moldy. If you’re new to pigs, a good book like The Backyard Homestead Guide to Raising Farm Animals has TONS of information.
Water is Key: Always make sure your pigs have access to fresh water. They drink a surprising amount, especially in the summer heat.
2. Shelter
Pigs are hardy animals, but they still need protection from the elements.
Housing: A simple three-sided shelter is perfect. If you’re in a colder climate, adding extra insulation (like stacking straw bales around their shelter) can keep pigs warm during winter. In summer, make sure their space offers plenty of shade to protect them from overheating.
Wallows Are Essential: Speaking of summer heat, pigs cool off by wallowing in mud. It also protects their skin from sunburn—a real concern for lighter-skinned pigs like Kunekunes! If you don’t already have a natural water source, creating a small mud wallow can keep your pigs happy and comfortable.
Bedding: Straw or hay is great for bedding. It’s cozy, inexpensive, and easy to replace.
Fencing: Pigs are curious escape artists, so sturdy fencing is a must. Electric fencing works wonders if you’re free-ranging them.
3. Space to Roam
Pigs love to root around and explore. It’s how they’re wired. If you can give them space to roam (like a pasture), they’ll be as happy as can be. We plan to let Penelope and Phoebe free-range as soon as they’re old enough. For now, they’ve got a cozy pen where they can play and nap.
Rotation Benefits: If you’re using pigs for land clearing, rotate their grazing areas frequently. This not only ensures they always have fresh forage but also minimizes over-tilling and lets previously grazed areas recover.
Pig Health and Wellness Basics
Let’s talk about keeping those piggies happy and healthy! Raising pigs isn’t just about food, water, and shelter—it’s also about being proactive when it comes to their health and wellness.
Parasite Control:
Parasites are just part of life when you're raising pigs. From nasty worms (like roundworms and lungworms) to external pests (think lice or ticks), they can wreak havoc on your pigs’ health if you’re not careful. Here’s how to stay ahead of the game:
Right from the start: Deworm young piglets on a schedule—typically every 6-8 weeks starting at 6 weeks old.
Routine Checks: Keep an eye on your pigs’ poop (yep, poop patrol) for signs of worms, such as visible eggs or diarrhea.
Clean Living Spaces: Parasites love filth, so regular pen cleaning and fresh bedding are musts.
You can get dewormers or parasite preventatives from most farm supply stores—many come in pellet form that can be mixed right into your pigs’ feed.
Signs of Illness: Know When Your Pig Needs a Helping Hand
Pigs are pretty hardy creatures, but they’re also sneaky when it comes to hiding illness. That’s why it’s so important to know what “normal” looks like for your herd and be on the lookout for anything out of the ordinary. Here are some red flags:
Loss of Appetite: If your pig isn’t diving face-first into their food bowl, something’s definitely up.
Lethargy: A pig that’s sluggish, sleeps more than usual, or seems uninterested in what’s happening around them could be fighting something.
Odd Behavior: Are they limping? Acting aggressively? Hanging out away from the group? These little things can be a clue that something isn’t right.
Coughing or Sneezing: Respiratory issues are common in pigs, especially in colder months or damp conditions.
Tip: Catching illness early is key! The moment you see something off, check their temperature (use a rectal thermometer—it should be between 101.5°F and 103.5°F) and get advice from a vet if needed.
Common Pig Health Issues: What to Watch For
A lot of pig illnesses are preventable if you know what to look for and how to treat them. Here are a few big ones:
Respiratory Infections: Caused by poor ventilation or rapid weather changes. Symptoms include coughing, nasal discharge, or wheezing.
Prevention Tip: Provide lots of fresh air and clean bedding—especially in wet and cold weather!
Skin Conditions: Mange or lice can be a problem (gross, but true). You’ll notice excessive itching, scabs, or bare patches of skin.
Prevention Tip: Regularly check their skin and treat with parasite medications as needed.
Foot Problems/Hoof Overgrowth: If their hooves get too long, it can lead to lameness or infection.
Prevention Tip: Trim their hooves as part of regular maintenance—your pigs will thank you!
Scours (Diarrhea): Common in piglets due to stress, changes in diet, or even parasitic infections.
Prevention Tip: Keep their diet consistent and always provide clean, fresh drinking water. Electrolytes may also help sick piglets recover.
TLC Goes a Long Way
Let’s not forget the most important part of pig wellness: YOU! Spending time with your pigs to monitor their behavior and build a bond will help you notice when something’s off. Plus, it makes health checks so much easier since they’ll be more comfortable around you.
Tip: Training your pigs to trust you early (whether with treats or belly rubs) is one of the best ways to stay on top of their health.
Common Questions About Raising Pigs
Raising pigs can be exciting, but it’s normal to have questions! From their habits to how long they live, here are some answers to help you understand these amazing animals better.
Do pigs smell bad? Honestly? Not really. If you keep their living area clean, pigs are surprisingly tidy. They even pick a “bathroom spot” away from where they eat and sleep.
Do pigs need baths?
Good news: pigs are remarkably self-sufficient and don’t need frequent baths! Their mud-wallowing habit helps them stay naturally clean, acting as a bug repellent and sunscreen. However, if they ever get into something particularly stinky, a quick rinse with gentle soap (pet-safe!) should do the trick.
Are pigs aggressive?
Most pigs, especially breeds like Kunekunes, are gentle and social. However, intact male pigs (boars) or pigs that aren’t handled regularly can sometimes display territorial or aggressive behavior. Socializing your piglets early (like handling Penelope and Phoebe daily) makes sure they’ll grow into friendly, well-mannered adults.
How long do pigs live? It depends on the breed and their purpose in life. Feeder pigs (the ones raised for meat) are typically butchered at about 6–8 months old. On the other hand, pet pigs or breeding sows can live much longer—usually anywhere from 12 to 20 years, depending on how they’re cared for. Yep, that’s a big commitment if you're thinking of raising a pig as a pet!
10 Fun Facts About Pigs
Okay, this might be my favorite part of the blog. Let’s take a break from all the practical stuff and talk about 10 fun pig facts that’ll make you love them even more.
Pigs are Clean: Forget the stereotype. Pigs are actually super clean animals. They only roll in mud to cool off or protect their skin from the sun. Basically, it’s their version of sunscreen.
They’re Smart: Pigs are ranked as the fifth-smartest animal in the world. They can learn tricks, recognize their names, and even solve simple puzzles.
Pigs Have Their Own Language: Even beyond their cute grunts and squeals, scientists have found that pigs have their own sort of "vocabulary" they use to communicate with one another (they have over 20 different grunts and vocalizations to communicate). They even develop unique sounds for different scenarios, like warning their piggy pals if danger is near.
Super Sniffers: Pigs have an incredible sense of smell. In fact, their noses are so sensitive that they can sniff out things buried underground, which is why they’re used for truffle hunting.
Social Butterflies: Pigs are highly social animals, and they love hanging out, whether it’s with their fellow piggy friends or their favorite humans. They’ll even form little social groups and develop relationships.
Pig Tales vs. Tails: Did you know the way a pig’s tail curls can actually vary between breeds? It’s one of those adorable little quirks that make each breed unique.
Pigs are Fast Runners: You might not expect it, but these stubby-legged cuties can move. Pigs can run up to 11 miles per hour! So, if you’ve ever tried to catch a slippery pig, now you know why that’s no small feat.
Pigs are Natural Swimmers: Believe it or not, pigs actually enjoy swimming. Their bodies are surprisingly buoyant, making them excellent paddlers.
They Recognize Human Voices: Your piggy buddy will remember your voice and even associate it with safety, food, or affection. Say their name enough, and you might just hear a friendly grunt or squeal in reply.
Pigs Come in ALL Sizes: From the massive 1,000+ lb Yorkshire hog to the adorably tiny teacup pig weighing only around 40 lbs as an adult, there’s a pig for everyone.
Why You’ll Love Raising Pigs
I hope What You Need to Know About Raising Pigs: Care, Feeding, and Fun Facts helped answer your questions and gave you a glimpse into just how special these animals are.
Penelope and Phoebe are proof that pigs bring SO much life and fun to a homestead. From their playful grunts to their ability to clean up leftovers, pigs are the perfect addition to any farm or family.
If you’re thinking about raising pigs—or just enjoy learning more about homesteading life—there’s plenty more to explore. Stick around the blog for more tips, stories, and farm adventures. There’s always something new to learn out here on the homestead!
Happy farming!
