Understanding pig social relationships and how farm management that supports stable social groups improves welfare outcomes.
Social bonding in pigs is a welfare-critical consideration that is frequently disrupted by production practices. When pigs are repeatedly regrouped for management convenience, the resulting aggression causes injury, chronic stress, and suppressed immunity. Research supports keeping pigs in stable social groups from weaning to slaughter where possible, and using odor masking or mixing techniques when regrouping is unavoidable.