There are hundreds of different domestic pig breeds (Sus scrofa domesticus) available throughout the world. But not all of these breeds are suitable for commercial pig farming business. And only a few breed of pigs are suitable for large scale pig production business.
Actually a pig breed is a type of pig that has a given set of biological and physical characteristics. There are also several breeds available which are found in the wild. And some breeds have been developed as per the needs of the farmers which are called cross breeds, hybrid or improved breeds.
Pig breeders have developed many breeds to suit modern farming in the same way that sheep and cows have been bred over time to be certain shapes, sizes, colors or temperaments. The cross breeds usually have parents of two or more different breeds.
On the other hand, the pure breed pigs are those animals which are bred from parents of the same breed or variety. It is believed that the majority of the pig breeds we know today are descended from the Eurasian Wild Boar (Sus scrofa).
Domestication of the pg occurs as early as 9,000 years ago, according to the archaeological evidence from the Middle East. With some evidence for domestication even earlier in China. Figurines, as well as bone, dating the sixth or seventh millennium BC have been found at sites in the Middle East.
Pigs were also a popular subjects for statuettes in ancient Persia. Initially most of the livestock were utilized by the normadic peoples, pigs are more indicative of a settled farming community.
The reason for this is simply because pig are difficult to herd and move for long distances. Pigs have become vital to the economy in parts of the world.
For example, there exists a “pig culture” in New Guinea as strong and complex as any African culture based on cattle.
List of Best Pig Breeds
Today pig farming business have become popular throughout the world and numerous breeds are available for different purposes. Some of these breeds are good for pork, some are good for bacon and some breeds of pigs are good for raising as pets. However, here we have listed some pig breeds which are raised and popular throughout the world.
| Name | Origin |
| Angeln Saddleback | Germany |
| American Yorkshire | United States |
| Arapawa | New Zealand |
| Berkshire | United Kingdom |
| British Saddleback | United Kingdom |
| Chato Murciano | Spain |
| Choctaw | United States |
| Danish Protest | Germany |
| Duroc | United States |
| Dutch Landrace | Netherlands |
| Essex | United Kingdom |
| Fengjing | China |
| Gloucestershire Old Spots | United Kingdom |
| Hampshire | United Kingdom |
| Hereford | United States |
| Italian Landrace | Italy |
| Kunekune | New Zealand |
| Lacombe | Canada |
| Large Black | United Kingdom |
| Large White | United Kingdom |
| Mangalica | Hungary |
| Meishan | China |
| Middle White | United Kingdom |
| Mora Romagnola | Italy |
| Mulefoot | Gulf Coast |
| Nero Siciliano | Italy |
| Ossabaw Island | Ossabaw Island |
| Oxford Sandy and Black | United Kingdom |
| Red Wattle | United States |
| Swedish Landrace | Sweden |
| Swabian-Hall | Germany |
| Tamworth | United Kingdom |
| Turopolje | Croatia |
| Pot-bellied | Vietnam |
| Welsh | United Kingdom |
| Wessex Saddleback | United Kingdom |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Commercial pig farming is a very popular business in many countries around the world. And there are many pig breeds available throughout the world. Many people are becoming interested in these breeds. That’s why people are trying to learn more about these breeds. Especially, the beginners (who are raising pigs for the first time) ask us many questions about this pig breed. However, here we are trying to list the most common questions and trying to answer them. Hope you will find your answer. Don’t hesitate to ask us if you have more questions.
What is the most common pig breed?
Yorkshire pigs are the most common breed.
What breed of pig is best for meat?
The best breed of pig for meat are:
- Yorkshire
- Duroc
- Berkshire
- Meishan
- Landrace
- Chester White
- Hampshire and
- Pietrain
How many breeds of pig are there in the UK?
The United Kingdom has 11 native breeds of pig. And all of these 11 breeds are considered rare and at risk of extinction.
What is the highest quality pork?
Berkshire. Berkshire pigs have been recognized for their amazing meat quality for over 300 years.
What type of pig is used for bacon?
The Tamworth was specifically bred for bacon
What is a male pig called?
A male pig is called boar.
What is a female pig called?
A female pig is called sow.
What is a baby pig called?
A baby pig is called piglet.
Which pig breed is most profitable?
Large White Yorkshire, Hampshire, Landrace are some best breeds which are raised commercially.
What is the fastest growing pig?
A crossbred pig is the fastest growing pig.
What is the most common breed of pig in UK?
British Lop is the most common breed of pig in the United Kingdom.
What are black pigs called?
Large Black Pig is also called with other names as Cornwall Black, Devon, and Large Black hog.
What is the oldest breed of pig?
The Meishan is one of the oldest breed of domestic pig.
What are the best breed of pigs for beginners?
Some good pig breeds for the beginners are:
- American Yorkshire
- Berkshire
- Chester White
- Duroc
- Hampshire
- Hereford
- Landrace
- Large Black
What breed of pig is used for commercial meat?
Yorkshire. Yorkshire is a very popular breed for commercial pig farming business.
Which pig breed is very good for raising as pet?
Kune Kune, Pot Bellied and Miniature pigs are considered as the best breed of pig for raising as pet.
What are the most common pig breeds in the USA?
The most common and popular pig breeds in the United States of America are:
- Berkshire
- Chester White
- Duroc
- Hampshire
- Landrace
- Poland China
- Spotted and
- Yorkshire
How to choose the right breed of pig for commercial pig farming business?
You have to emphasis on the availability of the breed in your area. Consult with some existing farmers in your area and ask them which breed performs well in your area, and which breed is most popular and has good demand and value in the market.
I am one of the totally disadvantaged small pig farmers. I don’t get any support anywhere, whether it be financially or given any pig feeds. I have to buy pig feeds out of my pocket. I would therefore appreciate your daily correspondence regarding the correct way of breeding and raising the pigs.