Every modern swine breeder knows that the big money is in the show ring. Keep that in mind when you're looking for pigs to establish or integrate into your breeding stock, and you won't go wrong. Test the efficacy of your genetic mix by selling show pigs before you invest in too many breeding cycles, and adjust your program as the winners in the show ring exhibit new conformation attributes. Purebred swine, like any purebred meat animal, are only as valuable as the judges at the big shows say they are.

It doesn't matter if you have an affinity for Landrace, Durocs or Hampshires, pigs used for genetically superior show breeding are only available within the show breeders' circuit. Many desirable modern bloodlines are recent national prize winners, so use the resources that will give your breeding program an edge over the competition:

1. Start out with the best pigs to produce the best pigs. You cannot improve on shoddy genetics.

2. Keep up with characteristics of swine breeds in the national show circuit, and adjust your genetic production accordingly.

3. Build a network of experienced big breeding experts to guide you as you develop a top-notch breeding program.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Find pigs for sale to build your foundation breeding stock

Locate swine for sale in your local area using resources within the show circuit. Great ones include an agriculture science teacher at your local high school, a local large-animal veterinarian, a county extension agent or a 4-H sponsor. As an added measure, research the pig stock available online to get an idea about the latest, greatest bloodlines, confirmation trends and hog prices.

I recommend: Find a pig farm you can trust with comprehensive listings from Agriscape or Showpig.com.

Produce show swine to promote the best characteristics of your favorite breed

If you're breeding for the show pig circuit, don't bother buying your own boar. Breed your gilts by artificial insemination, with pig semen from well-known boars. Find a livestock veterinarian who has dealt with swine semen in the past and has nitrogen-tank storage facilities if you need to order in bulk.

I recommend: Order a catalog of show pigs' semen from Prairie State Semen, Inc. Or, get a comprehensive listing of semen providers from The Breeders' World.

Connect with other swine farms to discuss breeding practices and business plans

It can take more than a village to keep up with advances in raising swine, and that's why it's important to connect with other pig breeders when building your foundation stock and seeking the most desirable genetics. Partner with others in the industry to find specialized markets for your purebred pigs.

I recommend: Network with other professionals raising pigs around the world with a free membership to The Pig Site. Post questions on the blog at Pig Progress.net, another global pig farming site.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Talk with your large-animal veterinarian well before investing in new pig stock. Behind every good pig breeder is a great vet, with lots of pig experience and insight into maintaining healthy breeders and piglets.