SWINE MANAGEMENT. 



9 



breeding herd, and to obtain this must be one of the first considera- 

 tions in selecting the original herd. 



THE SOWS. 



The females of the herd may be obtained by purchasing bred sows 

 or gilts safely in pig to a boar of recognized worth. As it is often 

 difficult to obtam a sow^ which has shown herself to be a good breeder 

 by the previous litters she has produced, it is advisable for economy's 

 sake to purchase bred gilts. These should be about 12 months old, 

 bemg bred after the age of 8 months, and if possible all should be in 

 pig to the same boar. Here is the first opportunity to practice selec- 



FiG. 4. — A good l)rood sov 



tion for uniformity; whether pure-bred or not, the sows should be 

 similar in color, marking, type, and conformationo The tjipe of the 

 sows selected should be the one which the market demands. While 

 there is some variation between the different breeds, it is largely, a 

 matter of characteristics, as a good individual, no matter what breed 

 it represents, if properly fed and managed will make economical gains. ^ 



CONFORMATION. 



In conformation a brood sow should show first of all femininity. 

 This is well marked in the hog if a close observation is made, and is 

 characterized by quality and refinement in all parts of the body. 

 The bristles are finer and less erect than those of the boar, giving the 

 sow a smoother appearance. The forehead is smoother, the neck 

 much thinner, and a little longer in proportion to the rest of the body. 



I See Farmers' Bulletin 765, "Breeds of Swine." 

 2197°— 17— Bull. 874 2 



