Genetic selection for large litter sizes has created welfare challenges for both sows and piglets, requiring management innovations to protect individual welfare.
The welfare consequences of hyperprolific sow genetics are severe and well-documented. Piglets in very large litters experience competition for teats, reduced birth weight, impaired immunity, and increased mortality. The sows themselves face higher metabolic demands and farrowing difficulties. This represents a case where breeding for production traits has directly compromised welfare - a situation where selection pressure should include welfare traits alongside productivity. Consumer and regulatory pressure for maximum litter size limits in pig breeding programs would address this welfare issue at its genetic root.