Outdoor and enriched indoor pig systems offer significant welfare improvements over conventional housing, with evidence-based enrichment protocols making a measurable difference.
Effective enrichment for pigs requires understanding what pigs actually need rather than providing token enrichment for compliance purposes. Pigs need rooting substrates, novel objects with regular rotation, space to perform natural behaviors, and opportunities for social play. Research has established clear enrichment principles; implementation at farm level requires training and commitment from farmers and stockpeople.