The breeding period of sows and boars significantly influences their reproductive performance, which is affected by factors such as breed type, feed quality, nutritional levels, management practices, and the intensity of breeding. As young pigs begin to breed, their reproductive capabilities gradually improve. By the age of 2 to 3 years, they reach their peak fertility. However, as they grow older, their sexual function declines over time, eventually leading to reproductive failure.
In modern pig farming, year-round breeding is commonly practiced, with commercial pigs being slaughtered in batches. Cost accounting is used to maximize economic returns, making it a highly competitive industry where every pig must contribute to profitability. Therefore, it's crucial to manage breeding stages effectively, using pigs at their optimal reproductive time and replacing them when their performance drops.
Young breeding pigs have several advantages: boars aged 1 to 3 years typically exhibit strong libido, quick sexual reflexes, high-quality semen, and higher conception rates. They are also more agile and less prone to limb diseases. Sows in this age range show clear estrus signs, have high fertility, deliver larger litters, and possess strong vitality and growth rates, along with good maternal instincts and production continuity.
On the other hand, older breeding pigs face several disadvantages. Boars over 3 years old often experience reduced fertility, decreased libido, slower sexual responses, and physical issues like obesity and joint problems, which impair their breeding ability. Older sows may have large litters but struggle with feeding, often producing milk-deficient offspring. Their bodies become bulky, leading to difficulties during nursing, such as hard-to-reach teats and poor milk access for piglets. Additionally, offspring from older sows tend to have weaker survival rates, slower growth, and potential genetic defects due to aging.
Modern pig farming primarily uses young to middle-aged pigs. Boars are usually kept for 2 to 3 years, while sows are bred up to 5 to 6 farrowings, with some exceptional individuals going up to 7 or 8. This frequent replacement increases the need for reserve breeding stock, typically maintained at 25% to 35% of the herd. While this helps maintain productivity, it also raises breeding costs and can affect overall herd performance if too many sows are retained.
To address these challenges, farmers should focus on improving overall efficiency to cover the costs of raising replacement pigs. Enhancing the fertility of sows by increasing their litter size from 1 to 2 farrowings can help. Implementing comprehensive technical strategies to boost pig production will ensure better use of breeding stock and long-term profitability.
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