Have you ever wondered about the diverse world of pigs, each with distinctive features and quirky charm? Different types of Pigs are often associated with farm life, bringing a delightful range of personalities, colours, and sizes to the table. From adorable mini pigs to heritage hogs that embody tradition and heritage, we will introduce you to an enchanting array of pig breeds. Join us on the exploration to learn more about the characteristics of each pig type, revealing how they have become a part of our lifestyle and hearts. Read on!
What is a Pig?
A pig is a domesticated descendant of the wild boar, scientifically known as Sus scrofa domesticus. These highly intelligent mammals exhibit many characteristics, like stout bodies, cloven hooves, and bristly hair. However, pigs come in various colors, including pink, black, and spotted varieties. Pigs are omnivorous animals, consuming both plants and small animals, and their snouts are adapted for rooting, helping them forage for food.
Although there are many breeds of domesticated pigs, only one recognized species, Sus scrofa, includes the wild boar and its various subspecies. These diverse pig breeds have been bredselectively for different purposes, such as meat production, and exhibit variations in size, coloration, and temperament.
Different Types of Pig Breeds Around the World:
We have curated a list of some of the unique and best pig greeds available worldwide with all their notable characteristics.
1. Duroc:
The Duroc pig is one of the oldest pig breeds and is a domestic pig whose home is also in North East India, though it was developed mainly in America. The crossbreeding between the Jersey Reds or Red pigs from New York with other mix-breed commercial hogs results in Duroc. This pig breed has a high caliber and crimson body colour and has been recognized as the best meat pig for small farms since the first breeding. Durocs are raised for their meat quality, known for their excellent marbling, juiciness, flavour, and reddish colour, a positive trait apart from their almost perfect characteristics.
- Scientific Name: Sus scrofa domesticus
- Length: 3 to 4 feet (0.9 to 1.2 meters) in body length.
- Height: 2 to 2.5 feet at the shoulder.
- Weight: 227 to 408 kilograms.
- Average Lifespan: 8 to 10 years.
2. Berkshire:
Berkshire pigs result from crossbreeding between the reddish or sandy brown coloured Original Berkshire pig with small black pigs from Asia in the late 18th century. This pigs are known for their large size and high fat concentration and, hence, are considered lard pigs. The breeding of the Berkshire pigs is primarily done because of their high-quality meat. The meat of these pigs is renowned for its rich flavour, tenderness, and excellent marbling with rich, dark colour, making it an extraordinary culinary delight. Berkshire pigs are easy to raise, breed, and adapt to different environments.
- Scientific Name: Sus scrofa domesticus
- Length: 3 to 4 feet (0.9 to 1.2 meters) in body length.
- Height: 2 to 2.5 feet (0.6 to 0.76 meters) at the shoulder.
- Weight: 272 to 363 kg.
- Average Lifespan: 8 to 10 years.
3. Mangalica:
Unlike many other distinct pig breeds, the Mangalica pig has a distinctive woolly coat and unparalleled meat quality, making it stand out. The crossbreeding between the European wild boar and Serbian Sumadiga has resulted in this domestic pig, the only pig breeds with wool over its skin. Mangalica pigs can thrive in various climates, from cold to warm temperatures, despite the thick wool on their body. Since Mangalica pigs are natural foragers, they are low-maintenance and love spending time outdoors. This pig’s lard melts at lower temperatures and is different from others.
- Scientific Name: Sus scrofa domesticus
- Length: 3 to 4 feet (0.9 to 1.2 meters) in body length.
- Height: 2 to 2.5 feet (0.6 to 0.76 meters) at the shoulder.
- Weight: 200 to 300 kg.
- Average Lifespan: 8 to 12 years.
4. Poland China:
The birthplace of the Poland China pig is Warren County, Ohio, whose creation was achieved with the cross breeding of miniature Chinese pigs with several European pig breeds, even Berkshire. This type of pig breed is raised for meat production, making it an excellent choice among farmers because it is one of the oldest, heaviest, and largest breeds of pigs. It is an omnivorous pig with highly prized meat in United States’ commercial pork production. Ham, sausages, bacon, and pork chops are everyday products made from this pig breed.
- Scientific Name: Sus scrofa domesticus
- Length: 3 to 4 feet (0.9 to 1.2 meters) in body length.
- Height: 2 to 2.5 feet (0.6 to 0.76 meters) at the shoulder.
- Weight: 272 to 363 kilograms.
- Average Lifespan: 8 to 12 years.
5. Yorkshire:
Yorkshire pigs were developed by crossbreeding large indigenous white pigs of Northern England, with more miniature white Chinese pigs originating in England in the 18th century. The Yorkshire pig is known to have a slow growth rate despite having amazing traits like robust, sturdy bodies and excellent lengths. However, it is still considered the United States’ most popular breed of commercial pork production. Yorkshire pigs are easy to manage and generally docile when placed on farms with ample space since they love to run and explore.
- Scientific Name: Sus scrofa domesticus
- Length: 3 to 4 feet (0.9 to 1.2 meters) in body length.
- Height: 2 to 2.5 feet (0.6 to 0.76 meters) at the shoulder.
- Weight: 227 to 318 kilograms.
- Average Lifespan: 8 to 12 years.
6. Hampshire:
These pigs produce the leanest meat without excess fat, making them a popular delicacy choice among chefs. Additionally, Hampshire has abundant meat owing to its large size, which is also used to produce ham and bacon.
- Scientific Name: Sus scrofa domesticus.
- Length: 3 to 4 feet (0.9 to 1.2 meters) in body length.
- Height: 2 to 2.5 feet (0.6 to 0.76 meters) at the shoulder.
- Weight: 295 to 386 kilograms.
- Average Lifespan: 8 to 12 years.
7. Gloucestershire Old Spot (GOS):
Another oldest pedigree spotted pig in the world is the Gloucestershire Old Spot (GOS), whose appearance resembles Dalmatians. Though the exact breeds involved in the pairing are not fully known, this breed was developed in the Vale of Berkeley in Gloucestershire, England. GOS pigs can integrate easily into a small farm because they are great foragers despite their unknown origins. These pigs’ meat has a succulent texture, excellent marbling, and a very dark colour.
- Scientific Name: Sus scrofa domesticus.
- Length: 3 to 4 feet (0.9 to 1.2 meters) in body length.
- Height: 2 to 2.5 feet (0.6 to 0.76 meters) at the shoulder.
- Weight: 181 to 272 kilograms.
- Average Lifespan: 8 to 12 years.
8. Vietnamese Pot Belly Pig:
The Vietnamese pot belly pig, as the name suggests, is a traditional domestic breed originating from Vietnam, hence the name. These types of pigs are popular pets because they are relatively more minor than others. It is believed that this breed might be a crossbreeding of several small pig breeds from China and Southeast Asia, though the exact origins are not entirely clear. These small pigs are a perfect choice for pets rather than meat production, making them even more popular.
- Scientific Name: Sus scrofa domesticus.
- Length: 2 to 3 feet (0.6 to 0.9 meters) in body length.
- Height:14 to 20 inches (35 to 50 centimeters) at the shoulder.
- Weight: 32 to 68 kilograms.
- Average Lifespan: 12 to 20 years.
9. Large white Yorkshire:
The large white Yorkshire is one of India’s most widely reared pig breeds. This breed’s meat has minimal fat and is renowned for producing large amounts of milk. This breed’s body is white with black patches, longer legs, a slightly depressed face, pricked ears, light and long shoulders, and a somewhat lengthy head. The large white Yorkshire adapts well to several environmental situations and is employed for crossbreeding.
- Scientific Name: Sus scrofa domesticus.
- Length: 3 to 4 feet (0.9 to 1.2 meters) in body length.
- Height: 2 to 2.5 feet (0.6 to 0.76 meters) at the shoulder.
- Weight: 250 to 408 kilograms.
- Average Lifespan: 8 to 12 years.
10. Landrace:
Landrace is another domestic breed produced by crossing the native pig in Denmark with other sizeable white pig breeds and is primarily found in India’s North Eastern states. This pig breed is specifically raised for meat production, making them stand out from other pig breeds. Because of the intramuscular fat, Landrace’s meat has a well-marbled appearance and has perfect flavour, juiciness, and tenderness.
- Scientific Name: Sus scrofa domesticus.
- Length: 3 to 4 feet (0.9 to 1.2 meters) in body length.
- Height: 2 to 2.5 feet (0.6 to 0.76 meters) at the shoulder.
- Weight: 272 to 408 kilograms.
- Average Lifespan: 8 to 12 years.
11. Tamworth Pig:
Tamworth pig is the world’s rarest type of domestic breed, originating in the United Kingdom. These pig breeds are medium-sized with narrow snouts and distinctive red colour. Tamworth pigs thrive in outdoor environments where they can forage and are known for being extremely calm, active, and friendly. These pig breeds have great potential, though not a commonly raised breed. Their meat is a perfect choice for bacon because it is tender, high-quality, has a unique flavour, and has the right amount of fat.
- Scientific Name: Sus scrofa domesticus.
- Length: 4 to 5 feet (1.2 to 1.5 meters) in body length.
- Height: 2.5 to 3 feet (0.76 to 0.91 meters) at the shoulder.
- Weight: 227 to 363 kilograms.
- Average Lifespan: 10 to 12 years.
12. Wild Boar:
Wild boar is a robust and adaptable mammal found worldwide in several habitats. Distinctive tusks, sturdy build, and bristly fur characterize this breed, whose coat colour ranges from dark brown to black or reddish-brown. These omnivorous creatures are also known for their keen sense of smell and foraging behavior. These pig breeds are crucial in ecosystems since they are opportunistic and resilient. However, owing to their prolific reproduction and potential impact on crops, they can also be a source of conflict.
- Scientific Name:Sus scrofa
- Length:3 to 6.6 feet (90 to 200 centimeters).
- Height:2 to 3.3 feet (60 to 100 centimeters)
- Weight:40 to 320 kilograms
- Average lifespan:4 to 8 years.
13. Red Wattle Hog:
As the name suggests, a red wattle hog is a pig breed known for their distinctive red-colored wattles (fleshy protuberances) hanging from the neck on both sides. This pig breed is often recognized for its hardiness and adaptability to various climates and reddish-brown coats. These hogs are prized for their flavorful, well-marbled meat originating in the United States. The popularity of red wattle hogs in specialty and heritage breed markets is attributed to their unique traits, which is why sustainable farmers and enthusiasts favour them.
- Scientific Name:Sus scrofa domesticus
- Length:4 to 6 feet (1.2 to 1.8 meters)
- Height:2 to 3 feet (60 to 90 centimeters) at the shoulder
- Weight:270 to 360 kilograms
- Average lifespan: 8 to 12 years.
14. Meishan Pig:
Characterized by a wrinkled face, droopy ears, and a unique body shape, Meishan pigs are famous for their distinctive appearance. This domestic type of pig breed originated in China and is particularly well-suited for pork production. The reproductive capabilities and efficient feed conversion of the Meishan pig are why they are known for their pork production.
- Scientific Name:Sus scrofa domesticus
- Length:100 to 120 cm (39 to 47 inches)
- Height:50 to 60 cm (20 to 24 inches) at the shoulder
- Weight:150 to 200 kg
- Average lifespan:10 to 12 years.
15. Kunekune Pigs:
Kunekune pigs are considered a symbol of New Zealand because of their origins in the place. These Types of pigs are perfect for small farms owing to their miniature stature. According to some scientists, Kunekune pigs have an excellent memory and are friendly and easygoing. These pigs are popular pets in many countries like the United States, Switzerland, Denmark, Germany, Canada, Portugal, and Austria because of their cute appearance. Another popular feature of these pigs is that they come in different colours like ginger, cream, black and white, gold, or black, to name a few.
- Scientific Name: Sus scrofa domesticus.
- Length: 2 to 3 feet (0.6 to 0.9 meters) in body length.
- Height: 20 to 24 inches (50 to 60 centimeters) at the shoulder.
- Weight: 45 to 136 kilograms.
- Average Lifespan: 15 to 20 years.
Interesting Facts About Pigs:
Here are some essential facts about pigs that you might find interesting:
- Pigs are brilliant animals, often compared to dogs.
- Pigs are omnivorous animals, consuming a varied diet that includes roots, fruits, and even small animals.
- Pigs can communicate through various sounds, from grunts to squeals, and thrive in social groups, forming tight-knit bonds and displaying complex social behaviors.
- Pigs can remember faces and environments for years, owing to their impressive memories.
- Pigs are strong swimmers and can cover long distances in water despite their stout appearance.
- Pigs are capable of experiencing joy, affection, and distress because they are emotionally sensitive animals.
- Domestic pig scan overgrow, reaching hundreds of pounds in just a few months if not limited by diet.
In conclusion, exploring different pigs types will unravel a tapestry of diversity in the universe of pigs. Every kind of pig brings a unique charm to your backyard, from heritage breeds to miniature marvels. We hope the information in the article will provide insight into the characteristics of different pig breeds and how they are interconnected to the agricultural world. Don’t forget to let us know if you found the article informative.
Disclaimer:
The information provided in this article is based on pure research and is for educational purposes and general knowledge only. It doesn’t constitute professional recommendations or advice.
