PORCINE PARVOVIRUS (PPV)

Photo: The Native Antigen Company

Porcine Parvovirus (PPV)

PPV, while not outwardly noticeable in our pigs during day-to-day observation, poses significant challenges as it affects our in-pig sows and gilts. This virus can wreak havoc internally, impacting embryo and foetus development.

Previously known as “stillbirth mummification embryonic death and infertility” (SMEDI), PPV was once a prevalent issue. However, effective vaccines have considerably reduced its occurrence.

Signs and Effects:

Signs of PPV vary depending on the stage of pregnancy. Infection can occur during mating, leading to total embryo loss and subsequent return to estrus. Later infections may still result in embryo destruction, with pregnancies terminating if fewer than four embryos are present. As the virus progresses, it can lead to termination of all foetuses, initiating a process of re-absorption and resulting in mummified births.

This litter belonged to a non-vaccinated gilt that was confirmed with PPV at approximately day 40 of gestation. Photo: Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica Inc.

Diagnosis and Behaviour:

Diagnosing PPV involves observing certain behaviours in breeding sows and gilts, such as repeated hogging every 3 weeks or irregular patterns every 4-5 weeks, along with the presence of mummified piglets and stillbirths.

Prevention and Vaccination:

Preventing PPV primarily relies on a robust vaccination program. Vaccines, particularly the combi vaccine Ery/Parvo, are highly effective. Consulting with your veterinary practice is essential for guidance on vaccination protocols, including vaccinating gilts prior to service and providing booster doses as recommended.

Considerations for Boars:

Boars themselves may not show clinical signs or semen damage from PPV but can carry and transmit the virus, potentially infecting gilts. Some veterinarians recommend vaccinating boars every six months to mitigate this risk, particularly in AI studs.

For comprehensive prevention and control strategies against PPV, veterinary advice and guidance is paramount.


The Oxford Sandy and Black Pig Group is UK’s only pig breed that is a registered charity in England & Wales (1190469) and Scotland (SCO52662). We are creating a better future for our breed the bloodlines and it breeding potential together with our Independent Pork Producers, Breeders and Oxford Sandy and Black Keepers and their families. Please click the donate button so we may continue to look after our breed and our supporters

Follow us on Facebook and see how we support, help and inspire individuals about our rare breed

CANNIBALISM IN PIGS


Understanding and Managing Cannibalism in Pigs

In recent months, the Oxford Sandy and Black Pig Group (OSBPG) have seen reports that have surfaced regarding sows and occasionally gilts exhibiting cannibalistic behaviour towards their piglets. These incidents typically occur in the context of large litters, ranging from 12 to 15 piglets, and can happen in both outdoor and indoor farrowings. Despite providing ample space, good lighting, and regular feeding, the sows tend to reduce the litter size to 7 or 9 piglets, indicating a contentment with this smaller size.

The phenomenon of cannibalism in pigs raises questions about its underlying causes.

Is it due to inherent aggression in certain pigs, close breeding, or perhaps a natural response indicating an inability to care for all piglets until weaning age? While some attribute it to shortcomings in husbandry skills, research suggests that cannibalism, termed “savaging,” is a recognised but poorly understood behaviour in pig farming.

Genetic Factors: Savaging is observed across various mammal species, including wild boars, and appears to be more prevalent in species with multiple births. While there are differences in general aggression among domestic pig genotypes, savaging does not necessarily run in families or result from inbreeding. Anecdotal evidence hints at certain commercial genotypes being more predisposed to savaging than others.

Predisposing Factors: Several factors tthat may predispose sows and gilts to exhibit cannibalistic behaviour:

  • Poor farrowing environment
  • Lack of empathy and inadequate handling
  • Possible effects of feed intake (lower intake before farrowing leading to hunger)
  • Pain during farrowing
  • “Storms” triggered by other savaging females in the same farrowing room
  • Inefficient cross-fostering practices

Management Strategies: Addressing cannibalism requires a multifaceted approach which may be considered such as:

  • Regular and gentle handling of pregnant gilts, emphasising empathy
  • Providing sufficient space for gilts at least a week before farrowing in indoor settings
  • Offering bran or grass before farrowing to promote gut health
  • Encouraging nest-building behaviour by providing ample straw pre-farrowing
  • Playing background music during the farrowing period may have a calming effect
  • Identifying problem animals early based on behavioural cues and considering treatments – with advice taken from your Veterinarian
  • Confining piglets to the creep area at the first sign of trouble during farrowing
  • Avoiding cross-fostering litters onto gilts
  • Consider culling sows that exhibit repeated savaging behaviour across multiple litters

In conclusion, cannibalism in pigs remains a complex and challenging issue in pig farming, necessitating a combination of proactive management practices and vigilant observation to mitigate its occurrence and impact on litter survival rates.


The Oxford Sandy and Black Pig Group is UK’s only pig breed that is a registered charity in England & Wales (1190469) and Scotland (SCO52662). We are creating a better future for our breed the bloodlines and it breeding potential together with our Independent Pork Producers, Breeders and Oxford Sandy and Black Keepers and their families. Please click the donate button so we may continue to look after our breed and our supporters

Follow us on Facebook and see how we support, help and inspire individuals about our rare breed Oxford Sandy and Black Pig

PIGS GET COLDS TOO

H1N1 swine flu virus particles – Photo Science Photo Library

Swine Flu

Similar to humans, pigs are susceptible to colds and flu, especially in the Autumn and Winter seasons; however, they can contract these illnesses at other times of the year as well. In pigs, this condition is referred to as Swine Influenza (swine flu), characterised as a respiratory disease caused by type A influenza virus. Swine Influenza regularly sparks outbreaks in pig populations. While swine flu viruses typically do not infect humans, rare cases of human infections have been reported. In pig herds, these viruses can lead to significant illness, although fatalities are infrequent.

The virus circulates among pigs throughout the year, with a tendency to peak during late Autumn and Winter months, mirroring the seasonal patterns observed in human flu and colds.

Similar to influenza viruses in humans and other animals, swine flu viruses undergo frequent changes. Pigs have the susceptibility to be infected by avian flu and human flu viruses. When flu viruses from diverse species infect pigs, mutations can occur, giving rise to new viruses that are a combination of swine, human, and/or avian flu viruses. This continual evolution has led to the emergence of various variations of swine flu viruses over the years. As a result, there are three primary influenza A virus subtypes that have been identified in pigs: H1N1, H1N2, and H3N2.

The primary mode of transmission for swine flu viruses among pigs is believed to be close contact, and there is a potential for transmission through contaminated objects moving between infected and uninfected pigs. Swine herds, even those that have been vaccinated against swine flu, may experience sporadic disease, with some showing only mild or no symptoms of infection.

Symptoms
Clinical manifestations of swine flu in pigs may encompass symptoms such as fever, depression, coughing (barking), discharge from the nose or eyes, sneezing, breathing difficulties, eye redness or inflammation, and a decrease in appetite. It is noteworthy that certain pigs infected may not display any signs of illness.

Is Swine Flu common

Before 1985, Swine Flu had not clinically appeared in pigs in the UK. However, subsequent investigations revealed the presence of a specific strain, H3N2, derived from humans, in the pig population since 1968. This strain was first associated with clinical disease in pigs in 1986, a year after cases of Swine Flu caused by a pig-specific H1N1 strain emerged. Later, in 1991/2, a new strain emerged, a mutation of the H1N1 pig strain and an avian influenza strain, designated H1 A/SW/195852/92. This strain, combined with PRRS (Blue Ear) infection, proved particularly severe. Throughout the 1990s, additional strains such as H1N2 and H3N1 were detected in pigs.

At present, the disease is widespread throughout the UK, manifesting as sporadic cases in individual herds, occasionally across regions, and persistently affecting certain farms for several months. Reports from APHA covering the winter period of 2015/6 indicate common disease outbreaks, primarily attributed to either the human pandemic strain A H1N1 09v or H1N2. Similar to human influenza, its prevalence peaks during winter conditions when virus survival rates are high, although cases can occur at any time of the year. A significant incidence of the pandemic strain in humans heightens the risk of widespread infection among pigs.

Treatment

Treatment for influenza in pigs is limited due to its viral nature, and unless there is a secondary infection, treatment is generally unnecessary. Typically, pigs will recover within a week. However, supportive therapy using aspirin administered via the water system or paracetamol in feed may aid in accelerating individual pig recovery. (As stated from NADIS) However in all cases do seek advice from your vets.

Nevertheless, Swine Flu, particularly in grower pigs, can make them vulnerable to other diseases, notably Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae. Many outbreaks of the latter have been linked to preceding unrecognised Swine Flu outbreaks. In such instances, prompt treatment with appropriate antibiotics is crucial to mitigate potentially catastrophic losses associated with this disease.

During uncomplicated Swine Flu outbreaks, growth may be slowed, and affected pigs may not be suitable for slaughter while they are ill. It is important to avoid overcrowding during outbreaks, and slaughter weights may be reduced after the disease has subsided.

Worth Noting: For over two decades, Swine Flu has posed a significant concern to pig keepers in the UK, with varying strains causing a range from mild to severe, including loss of appetite and respiratory issues. The emergence of the more recent human pandemic strain has heightened concerns among pig keepers due to its potential as a reverse zoonosis. This strain not only presents a direct threat as a primary source of disease but also raises alarms regarding its ability to intermingle with existing flu strains in pigs. Such interactions could potentially give rise to even more potent strains, posing risks to both pig and human populations alike.

Attention to high standards of biosecurity, isolation of incoming stock away from your main area of your holding/Farm have parts to play in the prevention of many diseases.  Not allowing to share same air space and no nose-to-nose contact. Biosecurity signs obtainable HERE from AHDB


The Oxford Sandy and Black Pig Group is UK’s only pig breed that is a registered charity in England & Wales (1190469) and Scotland (SCO52662). We are creating a better future for our breed the bloodlines and it breeding potential together with our Independent Pork Producers, Breeders and Oxford Sandy and Black Keepers. Please click the donate button so we may continue to look after our breed and our supporters

Follow us on Facebook and see how we support, help and inspire individuals about our rare breed

PIG PEDICURE

Similar to humans, the feet of pigs bear the weight and undergo considerable strain with little care. It’s crucial to prioritise foot health in pigs just as we do for ourselves. Many of us might not regularly check our pigs’ feet or understand what signs to look for.

Damage to the Oxford Sandy and Black pig feet leading to infection is a common cause of lameness and welfare issues among pigs, as observed by some sharing photos with us over the months on the Oxford Sandy and Black Pig Group on facebook . This problem affects all age groups, with sows and boars posing a particular challenge due to increased weight bearing, longevity, and variable nutritional status throughout their lives. The genetic makeup of the Oxford Sandy and Black pig can also contribute to these issues.

The majority of foot problems stem from defects in the claw, resulting from abnormal and excessive growth, abrasion, or a combination of both. Secondary contamination often leads to abscess formation and septic laminitis. Larger outer claws, bearing the most weight, are especially vulnerable to damage, with conditions like bush foot notably affecting the outer claws of the hind limbs.

Prevention is key, and maintaining hoof integrity should be a primary focus for all of us to ensure the well-being of our pigs.

Horn Growth and Foot Care in Pigs

The continuous growth of the protein-based (keratin) tissue in pig claws requires an appropriate protein level in their diet. Excessive protein can stimulate deformities and overgrowth, as discussed in previous posts. Sow protein requirements fluctuate through the reproductive cycle, impacting horn growth. Micronutrients like biotin, available at farm supply stores, are crucial for horn development.

Environmental conditions play a role in horn growth and hoof integrity. Wet ground, abrasive surfaces, and chemical exposure can affect pig hooves. Wet concrete poses a risk, as it softens hooves, potentially leading to overgrowth and cracks.

Consequences of poor hoof health include difficulty rising, altered gait, and susceptibility to infections like bush foot. Bacteria such as Streptococci, Staphylococci, E. coli, Fusiformis, and Trueperella pyogenes can cause infections through defects in the horn.

Foot care aims to maintain healthy, well-shaped hooves. We should aim and ensure that our pregnant and non-productive adult pigs receive at least 15% protein-based ration. Grazing variations and grass intake contribute to nutritional and a good enhancement on well being to our pigs.

For overgrown hooves, clipping and filing can be done, and sedation is also an option. Copper sulphate hoof mats, used weekly, can address feet problems. Other foot dip treatments should be carefully chosen, as some may harden hoof horn, leading to brittleness. Disposal of chemical solutions must be done with utmost care to prevent environmental contamination.

Remember, a healthy pig is a happy pig and a very happy keeper:-)

Photo 1 showing: Overgrown claw highlighting defects whereby infection can harbour

Photo 2 showing: Overgrowth of claws which may make rising difficult and will alter the gait of the pig which can put additional strain on joints

PHOTOS: PURDUE UNIVERSITY
Photo 1 showing: Overgrown claw highlighting defects whereby infection can harbour

The Oxford Sandy and Black Pig Group is UK’s only pig breed that is a registered charity in England & Wales (1190469) and Scotland (SCO52662). We are creating a better future for our breed the bloodlines and it breeding potential together with our Independent Pork Producers, Breeders and Oxford Sandy and Black Keepers. Please click the donate button so we may continue to look after our breed and our supporters

Follow us on Facebook and see how we support, help and inspire individuals about our rare breed

HOW OUR PIGS SEE THE WORLD

Photo: Mr & Mrs S Hricko

The Pigs Eyesight

The OSBPG Charity is always looking to investigate the wonders of pigs and this topic is by no means any different as we look to the topic of the vision of Pigs.

Pigs possess dichromatic vision, enabling them to perceive the world in blue, green, and various shades of red. However, unlike humans, they are unable to distinguish the millions of colour variations due to the absence of certain large wavelength cones in their vision.

In practical terms, this means that while pigs can identify all variations of blue and green, they lack the ability to distinguish between different shades of red with varying wavelengths.

It’s important to note that it is not only Oxford Sandy and Black Pigs that are not colour blind it is the same with all pigs; they see the world similarly to humans but in solid, distinct colours.

The Colour Vision of Pigs

Pigs can see blue, green, and red colours but are sensitive to different wavelengths as compared to humans. They are dichromatic animals. It means the cones in their eyes are only primarily sensitive to small and medium wavelength colours, i.e., blue and green.

Simultaneously, humans are trichromatic; hence the cones in our eyes can perceive small, medium, and prominent wavelength colours, i.e., blue, greenand red. However, according to a recent study by PigVision Institute, it is unveiled that pigs’ eyes are least sensitive to red colour up to 650 nm.

It demonstrates that there is a slight possibility that pigs can sense a small portion of red colour.  You will see the picture below, which show how we and pigs acknowledge different colours.

As justified by the recent studies, pigs’ eyesight can perceive green and blue colours at peak wavelength sensitivity at 439 nm (blue colour) and 556 nm (green colour).

Studies have shown that photoreceptors in a pig’s eye can just about recognise the colour of red, at a reading of under 650 nm.  In comparison, humans can see every shade of colour formed under the visible spectrum ranging from 380 nm to 720 nm.

The Way Pigs See the World

Pigs are not colour-blind and can see the world in colour. They are near-sighted and have a wide range of visual fields with a little bit of depth perception.  However, their vision is not as clear as ours.  It is estimated that the optical power of the pig eye is far much greater than the optical power of humans. Therefore, at far distance their vision will sense a duller outlook.

Also, being dichromatic, the colour perception of the pigs is limited to the blue-green shades. Additionally, their photoreceptors identify the colour red vaguely.  You will see from the images on the right, how pigs see the world compared to us.

It is said that pigs see objects as solid colours with dull vision. For example, pigs may see blue sky but cannot identify clouds and rainbows because of being near-sighted.

It has been mentioned before, here on the OSBPG Charity, that to help our pigs with feeling comfortable with their surroundings using solid colours like red, green, and blue for the nearby objects so that pigs can easily distinguish them in the form of water buckets and/or feeding vessels or enrichment toys will be very welcomed.

Apart from the vision, pigs have really good ears and noses. They can sense the world a lot more through sound and smell. Most of the time, they rely on their ears and nose for navigation and surroundings rather than the vision.

Also, their nostrils are sensitive, and through them, they can recognize their owners. Pigs’ vision is indeed poor compared to us, but if we compare their eyesight with say, cattle, they can see a lot better.

Do Pigs Have Night Vision

Pigs cannot see in the dark. Like nocturnal animals, they do not have a thin layer of reflective tissue on the back of their retina called tapetum lucidum. Pigs are diurnal and love to take rest at night. Also, their eyes evolved with more cones than rods that help them differentiate many colours rather than the ability of night vision.

Having fewer rods in their eyes makes it strenuous for pigs to identify the shapes of nearby objects even in the moonlight. Their vision is the same as humans at night. Humans also have very few rods in their eyes; that’s why we are not able to see anything in the dark.

There are two types of photoreceptors in the retina:  cones and rods.

Cones are responsible for colour vision, and rods help to sense the light. Both the human and pig eyesight are concentrated towards cones.

Should the need arise to move during the night, pigs will rely on their sense of smell and sound.

The Pigs Eyesight

Pigs have poor eyesight compared to humans, but they have an average vision in contrast to other animals. It primarily depends on which animal we are comparing them to.

Pigs are dichromats, and their eyes have cones that qualify them to distinguish mainly blue-green colours. Also, they are near-sighted; still, they can see up to 300 feet which is far better than an elephant. Not only the sight, but they can also hear from far distances.

In summary, pigs indeed have functional vision, but when it comes to colour perception and clarity, their visual capabilities fall short in comparison to humans.

Pig Vision vs Human Vision

Pig Vision

  • Have a dichromatic vision and can see blue and green colours at best.
  • Doesn’t have night vision
  • Can see up to 90 meters

Human Vision

  • Have a dichromatic vision and can see blue, green, and red colours at best
  • Doesn’t have night vision
  • Can see up to 3 miles
Photo: Mr & Mrs G Hogg

The Oxford Sandy and Black Pig Group is UK’s only pig breed that is a registered charity in England & Wales (1190469) and Scotland (SCO52662). We are creating a better future for our breed, the bloodlines and its breeding potential together with our Independent Pork Producers, Breeders and Keepers. Please consider clicking our donate button so we may continue to look after our breed and our supporters.

Follow us on Facebook and see how we support, help and inspire individuals about our rare breed

Piglet Observation – Part VII

Economic Considerations Regarding Low Birth Weight Pigs

As we know, and have experienced ourselves as we observe our Oxford Sandy and Black (OSB) low birth weight pigs, they can thrive when managed and nourished correctly. With meticulous care, these OSB piglets can achieve enhanced growth rates and therefore reduce pre-weaning mortality rates.

The economic implications of raising Oxford Sandy and Black low birth weight pigs can hinge on these few factors:

  1. Feed Efficiency: Their capacity to efficiently convert feed into growth.
  2. Production Variation Costs: Expenses associated with managing variation throughout the production process.
  3. Market Conditions: The prevailing prices of pigs and feed in the current market.

These factors collectively determine the economic viability of rearing low birth weight pigs, and with the right strategies, their performance can yield positive results.

You can also tune in to the OSBPG Podcast HERE and listen to leading pig nutritionist discuss pig feed and nutrition. Whilst there subscribe to the OSBPG Podcast and be apart of engaging discussions.


The Oxford Sandy and Black Pig Group is UK’s only pig breed that is a registered charity in England & Wales (1190469) and Scotland (SCO52662). We are creating a better future for our breed, the bloodlines and its breeding potential together with our Independent Pork Producers, Breeders and Keepers. Please consider clicking our donate button so we may continue to look after our breed and our supporters.

Follow us on Facebook and see how we support, help and inspire individuals about our rare breed

Piglet Observation – Part VI

Enhancing Nutrition for Improved Piglet Growth

Instead of increasing feed levels, it’s worth considering an improvement in nutrition. Selecting the right starter feed regime is vital to minimise the growth slowdown that our Oxford Sandy and Black (OSB) piglets may experience during the transition from liquid to solid feed.

Feeding a high-quality starter diet, supplemented with extra feed (matching the last diet of the starter regime), can enhance the performance of low birth weight OSB piglets up to 10 weeks of age. This approach can result in similar nursery exit weights for both low birth weight and normal birth weight pigs.

However, it is important to note that feeding a high-quality diet is less effective when introduced at nine weeks of age, indicating a critical intervention window.

Research indicates that not only do low birth weight pigs benefit from an improved dietary regime, but it is also cost-effective for producers. This approach yields a higher return per pig compared to a standard commercial regime, which has a lower margin over feed cost. For normal birth weight pigs, the standard commercial feed regime remains the most economical choice with the greatest margin over feed cost.

At weaning, separating OSB low birth weight pigs allows for selective feeding with an improved regime, as heavier OSB pigs are better suited for a standard commercial diet.

Further research reveals that nutritional treatments at different stages can impact outcomes such as:

  • Specialised diets introduced at weaning can enhance performance throughout the nursery phase and are more cost-effective than using a standard commercial regime.
  • Offering supplementary milk doesn’t significantly improve the performance of low birth weight piglets, but it does reduce birth weight variation in mixed litters.
  • Low birth weight pigs may not experience substantial benefits from a diet higher in amino acids and energy when fed from nine weeks of age.

The Oxford Sandy and Black Pig Group is UK’s only pig breed that is a registered charity in England & Wales (1190469) and Scotland (SCO52662). We are creating a better future for our breed, the bloodlines and its breeding potential together with our Independent Pork Producers, Breeders and Keepers. Please consider clicking our donate button so we may continue to look after our breed and our supporters.

Follow us on Facebook and see how we support, help and inspire individuals about our rare breed

Piglet Observation – Part V

Pre-weaning care of the Oxford Sandy and Black Piglet

Creating a non-competitive environment for your Oxford Sandy and Black piglet during the early stages of life is crucial for the smaller piglets, as previously explained in “Piglet Observation Part IV“. This environment can be established through cross-fostering.

Supplemental milk, such as sow replacement milk or goat’s milk, can effectively reduce the variation in birth weights, ensuring a more consistent growth to slaughter weight.

By combining these two management techniques, we can effectively control costs, rather than providing supplemental milk to a larger number of litters unnecessarily.


The Oxford Sandy and Black Pig Group is UK’s only pig breed that is a registered charity in England & Wales (1190469) and Scotland (SCO52662). We are creating a better future for our breed, the bloodlines and its breeding potential together with our Independent Pork Producers, Breeders and Keepers. Please consider clicking our donate button so we may continue to look after our breed and our supporters.

Follow us on Facebook and see how we support, help and inspire individuals about our rare breed

Piglet Observation – Part IV

Photo: Lydia Johnston

Cross- Fostering

When dealing with large litters and you have simultaneous farrowings, there may be an opportunity to implement a fostering procedure, transferring your Oxford Sandy and Black piglets from a larger farrowing to a smaller farrowing. This practice can be of benefit as well as ensuring the welfare of sow and piglets which begins with careful observation of the piglets.

Identify those piglets that show signs of lethargy and lacklustre. These observations will serve as indicators for taking action, possibly including the decision to foster the struggling piglet and at the same time provide essential sustenance such as electrolytes or additional milk.

Cross-fostering your low birth weight Oxford Sandy and Black piglets with littermates of similar weight can significantly improve their daily weight and overall health with the added bonus of high expectations for pre-weaning performance.

We are aware that smaller piglets competing with their larger siblings are at a disadvantage. Therefore, whenever possible, it is advisable to create foster litters consisting of the smallest piglets born on a given farrowing day. It is essential to introduce these small piglets to a sow that is in her early stages of motherhood, preferably on her first or second litter. Sows in their second year, for instance, tend to have smaller teats that are better suited for the small mouths of these piglets. This thoughtful approach can greatly benefit the piglets’ growth and overall well-being of the Oxford Sandy and Black Pig.

You might discover our blog titled “Piglet/Weaner – Being Prepared” to be a valuable resource for additional guidance and assistance.


The Oxford Sandy and Black Pig Group is UK’s only pig breed that is a registered charity in England & Wales (1190469) and Scotland (SCO52662). We are creating a better future for our breed, the bloodlines and its breeding potential together with our Independent Pork Producers, Breeders and Keepers. Please consider clicking our donate button so we may continue to look after our breed and our supporters.

Follow us on Facebook and see how we support, help and inspire individuals about our rare breed

Piglet Observation – Part III

Photo: Mrs H Ellaway

Selection for Breeding and Observational approaches for the Newborn

Selection for Breeding

Among us, some maintain a closed herd, while others do not, often due to the practicality of keeping two sows not justifying the presence of a boar. In such cases, the option of hiring a boar becomes viable. Regardless of the approach, prioritising biosecurity remains crucial. Should hiring a boar is your preference, ensure you know the boar’s recent history; when was the boar last hired out, his health plan (wormed, vaccinated for ery/parvo) and, of course, ensure that the boars’ size suits your sow or gilt.

When selecting Oxford Sandy and Black pig (OSB) breeding stock, choose from OSB sows and gilts that have consistently produced robust litters. This indicates their strong placental efficiency, which ensures optimal oxygen and nutrition exchange therein. Furthermore, each breed possesses distinct attributes that are essential for going forward for breeding and advancing our breed’s quality. To better understand these attributes, explore the Oxford Sandy and Black Pig breed conformation HERE

Piglet Observation Approach

Being present during the farrowing process is not only exciting but also immensely helpful. It allows you to monitor various critical aspects, starting from the moment the OSB sow/gilt begins farrowing until the last piglet is born, and you witness the completion of the farrowing process with the passing of the two afterbirths. Additionally, you can ensure that every piglet receives its crucial first dose of colostrum. It is worth noting that colostrum declines approximately six hours after the onset of farrowing.

Your presence enables you to assist vulnerable piglets in accessing teats ensuring they receive nourishment without difficulties.

By closely monitoring the farrowing process, you can also promptly identify any signs of ill health among the piglets and follow the prescribed veterinary protocols for treatment. Moreover, you can verify that the piglets are positioned either on or under a heat source and not heaped up on top of each other which will indicate that they are cold. Bear in mind that the piglet has no brown fat (used by mammals to generate heat quickly) so the piglet cannot use fat to generate heat in cold conditions. Therefore, piglets require environmental temperatures of 34°C or more for the single new born piglet, or 25-30°C or more for the piglet able to huddle in order to maintain body temperature.


The Oxford Sandy and Black Pig Group is UK’s only pig breed that is a registered charity in England & Wales (1190469) and Scotland (SCO52662). We are creating a better future for our breed, the bloodlines and its breeding potential together with our Independent Pork Producers, Breeders and Keepers. Please consider clicking our donate button so we may continue to look after our breed and our supporters.

Follow us on Facebook and see how we support, help and inspire individuals about our rare breed