There are many different pig breeds, all have poor eyesight, but a great sense of smell. Their nose is sensitive, but they use it as a tool to root (dig in the dirt). https://www.livestockoftheworld.com/pigs/
Sex of Pigs
I have been using the word pig(s), but the term swine is interchangeable. Hog usually refers to a domestic pig over 120 lbs. Boars are wild pigs or uncastrated male pigs, male pigs are barrows. Female pigs are gilts, and a sow is a female pig who has reproduced. Domestic pigs have bred so many times it’s rare to see one with tusks. Piglets with tusks will have them removed or trimmed once or twice a year. Most people have them removed so the pig doesn’t hurt itself, other pigs, or people. You can tell the difference between a male and a female pig because males have a seeth, while females have vulvas. A seeth is between the male’s legs and a vulva is on a female’s rear.
Female pigs go into heat, so you want to make sure this happens before you go to the fair. The term ‘heat’ refers to the period in which female pigs are ready to reproduce. You should practice loading up your pigs on your trailer and taking a drive a week before the fair. Pigs are less startled when you load them up to leave, and you know the most effective way to load them. I bring this up because this can put your gilt in heat. You want this to happen before the fair so your gilt (most female show pigs will be gilts not sows) shows well. During heat, your gilt won’t want to move and its body temperature will rise.
Breeds
There are twelve recognized domestic pig breeds that can be shown in 4H. These are, Herford, Duroc, Hampshire, Berkshire, Tamworth, Poland China, Pietrain, Landrace, Yorkshire, Chester, and Spotted. There are other breeds such as potbelly or mini, but there’s not a show for these breeds. The difference between these breeds is mostly physical appearance, but certain pigs have greater capabilities than others. For example, Berkshires have a good memory and facial recognition, so you have to be extra patient with them. Some think a certain breed shows better or tastes better, but that’s opinion-based.
