Farm Animal Welfare

Pig Welfare in Backyard Systems

Backyard pig keeping has different welfare challenges from commercial farming - appropriate standards and education improve outcomes.

Key Facts

Backyard pig keeping is growing in many countries alongside interest in food self-sufficiency
Social needs require keeping pigs in pairs or small groups at minimum
Veterinary access is often lower for backyard pigs than commercial herds
Biosecurity remains essential to prevent introduction of disease affecting commercial herds
Appropriate slaughter access is a welfare challenge for small-scale keepers

Welfare Considerations

Backyard pig welfare requires the same evidence-based attention to social needs, nutrition, health, and appropriate end-of-life as commercial farming - but in a different context with different challenges. Education and appropriate standards enable backyard keepers to provide high welfare.

What You Can Do

Ensure backyard pigs are kept in social groups and have veterinary access
Access backyard pig welfare resources from RBST and similar organisations
Plan slaughter access as part of backyard pig welfare from the outset