The Accidental Smallholder Forum

Livestock => Pigs => Topic started by: arusse23 on May 06, 2011, 01:38:44 pm

Title: Breeding GOS?
Post by: arusse23 on May 06, 2011, 01:38:44 pm

What is the best age to start breeding GOS? I have read that waiting until they are 9-10 months gives the female a better chance of becoming a better mother? Also how long is the breeding life of a female GOS....i.e how many litters can they have?

Thanks

Andrew

Title: Re: Breeding GOS?
Post by: Mr Pig on May 06, 2011, 02:13:53 pm

Let the gilt get to a good size before mating her for the first time. 9-10 months should be ok, 10-11 would be better.

GOS are known for being long-lived breeders and there's no reason why with care she shouldn't breed 2 litters a year for 5 or 6 years.

There's quite a bit of info including free advice in the form of a series of articles for new keepers/breeders on the GOS Club website www.oldspots.org.uk (http://www.oldspots.org.uk)

Title: Re: Breeding GOS?
Post by: Hilarysmum on May 07, 2011, 12:59:18 pm

Hilary is 7 and still produces regularly, although thankfully not the double figures of earlier litters.