Socializing new large blacks

[southernstardowns]

We just got our large blacks today. They are about four months old. They are acting somewhat scared of us so I was wondering if someone had any tips or techniques that would ease their transition and socialize them to us. Thanks in advance for all the help!

 

[animalfarm]

I got my first 2 gilts when they were 4 months old; trucked across Canada in a dog crate. They didn't like being touched and were pretty jumpy. Go into the pen to feed them and stand around for a bit yapping about the weather or some such thing without trying to touch them. Move slowly closer to them and just stand there. Take days and/or weeks to get up close. When you can stand close to them while they are eating, try giving them a scratch at the base of the tail. Eventually they will be hooked and you won't be able to get rid of them.

Once they associate you with bringing the grub and a back scratch, you will become a VIP very quickly and your problem will be teaching them to respect your space; a concept which does not come naturally in the pig world.

 

[Cornish Heritage]

Keep them in a fairly small area of pasture & as animal farm said once they start associating you with feed they will soon warm up to you. Always let their food run out so that they are eagerly waiting for you to bring more. Just go gentle on them & in a couple weeks you will see a big difference.

Large Blacks are one of the most docile pigs around. Our big pigs LOVE their belly rubs, even the boars.

Liz

 

[Royd Wood]

As above posts
Sorry had to stick my nose in on a Large Black topic
Good luck and you have chose well