340 TYPES AND MARKET CLASSES OF LIVE STOCK 



Morrison* which summarizes over 500 American feeding trials 

 with more than 2,200 hogs: 



Weight of hogs Pounds feed for 



100 pounds gain 



100150 pounds 437 pounds 



150200 pounds 482 pounds 



200250 pounds 498 pounds 



250300 pounds 511 pounds 



300350 pounds . 535 pounds 



The risk of loss from disease is lessened in marketing younger 

 hogs, and the farmer gets a quicker turnover of his capital. 



The most profitable hog is one that inherits the ability to 

 grow to large size, but which will fatten if desired long before 

 the limit of growth is reached. It is desirable, therefore, to set 

 the standard for matured weight as high as is consistent with 

 proper form, quick maturity, and quality. For boars in high 

 condition, the standard may be set at 800 pounds or over without 

 necessarily sacrificing other desirable qualities. Sows in high 

 condition should weigh not less than 600 pounds. By proper 

 selection and by improved methods of feeding and management, 

 these weights may be equalled or surpassed. It is not desirable 

 to keep breeding stock in high condition, but the term "breeding 

 condition" has such a variable meaning that it cannot be used 

 satisfactorily as a basis for weights. In breeding condition, 

 boars and sows will weigh considerably less than 800 pounds and 

 600 pounds respectively, but they should have enough size of 

 frame and capacity for taking on flesh to enable them to reach 

 these weights if they were fed to high condition. 



2. Feeding capacity is indicated by length, depth, width, 

 and fullness of middle. Some degree of paunchiness may be 

 accepted as evidence of feeding capacity. A wide head, promi- 

 nent poll, well-developed jaw, a mild eye, and a short neck are 

 further indications of a good feeder. 



3/ Constitution and vigor are indicated by width and 

 depth of chest, a large heart-girth, good spring of rib, large 

 feeding capacity, and a strong appetite. A general appearance 

 of strength and ruggedness without coarseness, an active walk, 

 a bright, open eye, a healthy skin, and abundant, glossy hair 

 are other evidences of constitution, thrift, and vigor. 



4. A quick-maturing hog is one that makes a fast growth, 

 yet can be fattened off at market weight. Such hogs are ready 



* Feeds and Feeding, p. 569. 



