TYPES AND MARKET CLASSES OF LIVE STOCK 343 



The skin over the shoulders of mature boars is thicker and 

 heavier than on sows or barrows. This character is called the 

 shields, and was a highly useful feature in the wild boar as a 

 protection in fighting. The wild boar has transmitted this 

 character in greater or less degree to his domesticated descend- 

 ants. In some instances the thickening and hardening of the 

 skin is so great as to produce pronounced callouses, and these 

 are objectionable. A smooth shoulder is desired in the boar 

 as well as in the sow and barrow. 



7. Great variation in prolificacy exists between individual 

 sows of the same breed. There are also some rather marked 

 differences between breeds. The number of pigs per litter varies 

 from one to sixteen or more, but with good management is 

 usually from six to ten and under ordinary farm conditions 

 averages about seven or eight. It is well to remember, however, 

 that it is the number of pigs raised, rather than the number 

 farrowed, which is most important. Sows that are irregular 

 breeders, difficult to get in pig, not prolific, poor sucklers, or 

 that lie on their pigs should be sent to market. Short-middled 

 sows of the chunky type are usually lacking in prolificacy and 

 milking qualities. Size, stretch, roominess and a mild disposi- 

 tion are essential to good brood sows. Their udders should 

 include twelve or more well-developed glands and teats. 



Masculine, vigorous boars are quick and sure breeders. 

 Motherly- or matronly-looking sows are the most satisfactory- 

 breeders and best mothers. 



8. The breeding herd should be kept as uniform in size, 

 form, color, and other points as possible in order that the pigs 

 may acquire a finish at about the same time and present a uni- 

 form and attractive appearance in the feed-lot and on the market. 



9. A good ancestry back of a young boar or sow is the 

 best possible guarantee that it will develop into a useful breed- 

 ing animal. Between two hogs equal in individuality, one the 

 best pig from a poor litter and a poor ancestry, and the other 

 the worst pig from a good litter and a good ancestry, there is 

 almost certain to be a marked advantage in favor of the latter 

 as a breeder. Particularly in selecting boars is it important 

 to buy from a good herd, and to select pigs from a large litter, 

 a good litter, a good sire, and a good dam. In other words, 

 try to get prolific and producing blood, blood that will breed on. 

 In breeding for the market, the sows should be purebreds or 

 high grades. None other than a good purebred boar should 



