The Welfare of Pigs on Outdoor Farms

Outdoor pig farming provides significant welfare benefits compared to indoor systems — but challenges remain.

Key Facts

Outdoor pigs can engage in rooting, wallowing, and complex social behavior
Pigs on outdoor farms have lower rates of tail biting and stereotypic behaviors
Outdoor systems expose pigs to weather extremes and predation risks
Welfare-certified outdoor pork is more expensive but increasingly available

Welfare Considerations

Outdoor pig farming represents a meaningful improvement over intensive indoor systems because it allows pigs to express natural behaviors — rooting, wallowing, and socializing in complex ways. Pigs on outdoor farms have demonstrably better welfare on most behavioral and physiological measures. However, outdoor systems are not welfare-perfect: extreme weather, predation risk, and inadequate mud wallowing opportunities remain challenges. Welfare certification specifically for outdoor pig systems helps ensure that outdoor labeling translates into genuine welfare improvements.

What You Can Do

Choose pork certified by welfare schemes requiring outdoor access
Visit farms at farmers markets to verify outdoor conditions
Advocate for outdoor access requirements in animal welfare legislation
Support research into best practices for outdoor pig welfare management