How Long Do Pigs Live? 8 Popular Breeds And Their Lifespan

Pigs are among the most intelligent animal species in the world and also amazing animals to be around. While they are often in domesticated environments, it is crucial to ask how long do pigs live.

Many people breed pigs as pets and livestock, though certain species live in wildlands and forests. Pigs are also an excellent addition to a backyard farm. But how long do pigs live?

If you consider bringing a pet pig home to live on your farm, you should know how to care for it and how long it will live.

In this article, we’ll discuss more facts about pigs and answer the question; how long do pigs live? Keep reading to find out more interesting facts about pigs.

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Pig

The pig, also known as swine, hog, or domestic pig, is an omnivorous, domesticated, even-toed mammal. It is known as a subspecies of the Eurasian boar or as a distinct species.

Pigs weigh about 50 to 350 kg as adults but could exceed that range if well-fed. Their species often determine the weight and size of pigs.

Pigs are kept as companions and livestock by most people. Pigs are raised as livestock primarily to produce meat, known as pork.

A group of pigs is known as a  sounder, passel, or team. Their bones, bristles, and hide are also used for products. So, the question now is; how long do pigs live?

How Long Do Pigs Live?

One of the questions most pig owners ask is: how long do pigs live?

The average lifespan of pigs is about fifteen to twenty years. But they are not often allowed to live up to twenty years on farms as they are popular livestock animals.

They are slaughtered at six months of age if raised for food.

Wild pigs only live four to ten years on average because of their surroundings and possible predators.

However, pet pigs can live up to 20 years or more. Wild pigs live shorter than domesticated pigs for the reason that they are often victims of prey and predator situations.

What Are The Popular Pig Breeds And Their LifeSpan?

1. Berkshire Pigs lifespan

Berkshire pigs originated from England but are now reared around the world. They have black bodies and white feet, which look like socks.

Berkshire pigs have a lifespan of about six to ten years. Berkshire pigs are a good option if you have a farm and want quality meat. They are calm, so you don’t have to worry about territorial disputes.

2. Yorkshire Pigs lifespan

Yorkshire pigs are highly active and used for crossbreeding other pig species with their superior genes. Though, there are some health issues to be aware of with this breed.

Yorkshire pigs are large, and their weight can result in respiratory illnesses, including bronchitis and pneumonia.

Yorkshire pigs have a good lifespan but are not great domestic pets, so they are slaughtered at a younger age. Yorkshire pigs can live for eight to ten years.

3. Spotted Pigs lifespan

Spotted pigs have light pink skin with black spots all over their body.

Over time, spotted pigs are bred to have exceptional traits. They have excellent feed efficiency and rate of gain. Spotted pigs can live for fifteen to twenty years.

4. Chester White Pigs lifespan

Chester White pigs are white in color. Male Chester White pigs are very aggressive, while females are docile.

There are a few health problems to be aware of with this breed. They are likely to suffer from a Vitamin C deficiency, which can leave them weak and in chronic pain. Chester White pigs can live for  6 to 8 years. 

5. Duroc Pigs lifespan

The Duroc pig is the oldest domestic breed in the United States. They are red in color and make lovely domestic pets because of their average size.

Duroc pigs live longer than other breeds of pigs. This longevity resulted from selective breeding, which made them a favorite among farmers.

Duroc pigs were crossbred with other species to produce more miniature piglets with a higher chance of surviving. Duroc pigs can live for ten to fifteen years.

6. Poland China Pigs lifespan

Despite the name, this breed of pigs originated in America and was first bred in Ohio.

However, the origin of the name is unknown, but it is believed that American farmers thought this was how a crossbreed between polish and Chinese pigs would resemble.

These pigs gain weight quickly, which could result in leg issues and joint pain. Poland China pigs live for 6-10 years.

7. Landrace Pigs lifespan

Landrace pigs are of excellent quality, and their country of origin, Denmark, once refused the exportation of the pigs. They wanted to maintain their reputation as the country that exports the best bacon.

However, landrace pigs are now found all over the United States. The piglets are very large when they are born and consume a lot of milk. The lifespan of a landrace pig is 6 to 10 years.

There are some common health issues to be aware of with these breeds. They are prone to leg weakness and nervous disorders.

8. Hampshire Pigs lifespan

Hampshire pigs are black with a white ring around their tummies. They are known for their specific markings.

Hampshire pigs live for 10 to 12 years. These farm animals have rapid growth, especially sows. They are lovely, docile mothers who care for their piglets.

How Can You Extend The Lifespan Of Your Pet Pig

If you own a pet pig, whether indoors or on your farm, it’s crucial to know how you can extend its lifespan:

1. By Feeding Pigs Healthy Meals

Pig owners should feed their pigs a pig-safe meal commercially designed for their specific breed.

If you’re not fattening up your pet pig for slaughter, you should give it a low-carb diet that will keep it full but not lead to obesity.

Always give your pet healthy, natural meals like apples, lettuce, carrots, and cabbage.

Do not feed leftovers that might contain unsafe foods for pigs because harmful human foods leftovers are how illnesses and diseases often start.

Also, ensure your pet pig has access to enough water.

2. By Providing A Clean And Safe Environment

When it comes to your pig’s health and safety, you must keep them in a safe environment. If your pig leaves your yard, it can be attacked by dogs or hit by a car, which can end its life early.

Make sure your pig has a toxic-free, secure, and safe environment.

Also, check if there are any electrical wires nearby and if there are any furniture items that your pig might run over and possibly hurt themselves.

Lastly, you must ensure your pet pig’s safety so it can live to a ripe old age.

3. By Seeking Vet Help in Emergencies

Don’t hesitate to consult your vet for treatments if your pet pig is ill. Also, ensure your pig pet is eating well and protected against infectious diseases, and always take them for veterinary care.

FAQ related to how long do pigs live

Bottom Line

If you’re looking for a domestic or a livestock pig, you need to know some facts about pigs, including how long pigs live.

Livestock pigs have a long lifespan, but their purpose of breeding or meat makes them only live for six months to three years. Domestic pigs have a lifespan of 15 or 20 years.

Always ensure your pig is happy if you want it to live longer because pigs live longer and healthier when they are so glad.

Pigs are social animals, so don’t raise one pig by itself; instead, raise two or three pigs together so they can meet their social needs.

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