Outdoor pig farming allows natural rooting and social behaviors but presents welfare challenges from weather exposure and predation.
Outdoor pigs generally have substantially better welfare than indoor intensive pigs due to freedom of movement, environmental complexity, and rooting opportunities. However, weather extremes cause welfare challenges. Hypothermia kills newborn piglets in cold wet conditions. Summer heat stress is significant as pigs cannot sweat. Predation is a risk. Mud management is essential as both too much and too little mud affects welfare. Well-managed outdoor systems provide excellent welfare while poorly managed ones can cause significant suffering.