Breeding Tamworths

[that's*satyrical]

We are new to pigs so fairly clueless but we are taking home a breeding pair of Tamworth pigs next week-end. These 2 were both born early March of this year. How old til we breed them? Are they ok together until they reach breeding age or will they breed too soon? If not when should I seperate them? Thanks.

 

[PattySh]

The presence of a boar will probably make the female come into heat earlier. Accidental breeding can happen as early as 5 months and the resulting piglets too big for the mother to give birth to. I am facing that right now and need to seperate a new boar from two gilt piglets very soon. MIne at 4 months are not mature, male still has very small testicles and no interest in the girls. Need to seperate them asap tho, things can change fast.

 

[that's*satyrical]

So how old should they be for breeding? At this rate I guess they can stay together about another month, then I will seperate, then when can I put them back together for breeding? Can they stay together after breeding until the piglets arrive & after they arrive or not? Thanks.

 

[SDGsoap&dairy]

Very excited to see this project in action! We've considered pigs for a long time and have a "pet" pig. What a great option for folks like us with lots of woodland and little or no pasture.

 

[that's*satyrical]

Very excited to see this project in action! We've considered pigs for a long time and have a "pet" pig. What a great option for folks like us with lots of woodland and little or no pasture.

I know, we are hoping they will clear some pasture land out for us. Maybe so we can venture into a horse or 2 later on. We have neighbors that are interested in keeping a horse as well so hopefully we can keep one & they can keep one & then we can go for rides with a friend or each other. Supposedly these guys are pretty good at rooting up tree stumps & such.

 

[Cornish Heritage]

We are new to pigs so fairly clueless but we are taking home a breeding pair of Tamworth pigs next week-end. These 2 were both born early March of this year. How old til we breed them? Are they ok together until they reach breeding age or will they breed too soon? If not when should I seperate them? Thanks.

Tamworths are a heritage breed. Yes the gilt may come into heat early but it is rare. Most gilts come into heat between 7- 10 mths by which time they are well able to carry a litter. Normally a gilt litter is smaller than a sow litter but not always. We raise Large Blacks here & we keep our breeding pairs together from a very early age. I would not advise separating them especially as you have only the two pigs. They need each other for company.

In fact it is possible to keep the boar in with the gilt even when she farrows. HOWEVER that depends on your set up & the temperament of the boar. I know Tamworths are more highly strung than Large Blacks so the boars may not be as gentle. Our boars are superb fathers & will sit down gently just like a sow does so as not to squish the piglets.

A lone boar is a problem boar. They get lonely & may start tearing at fencing & becoming ornery.

Liz