Sow to Boar Ratio (and other newbie questions)

[ACTS Village]

What is the fewest number of sows I can have to keep boar happy? Can he stay in with sows if they are not giving birth (or have piglets) or should he be moved to another pen? If he is moved, should I get him a castrated pig as a buddy (even if he is next to the sows and can see them)?

 

[AshleyFishy]

Really depends on the boar and how much room they have. My current one lives with one sow year around, yes even with piglets. I've had no trouble with him and they are both happy.

My previous boar was a pill though. He was in with three sows and just wouldn't settle in. He however bred all three easily. If you do separate your boar the only reason to get a castrated one as a buddy would be to promote weight gain, which you wouldn't need really unless he is going in the freezer.

 

[ACTS Village]

Thank you for the information! I am happy to know I can get a breeding pair only and not have to have several sows to keep him happy.