Staged Selection and Retention Methods and Technical Points for Replacement Gilts

Sows that meet the conditions for breeding use generally undergo 3 stages of selection and retention: The 1st stage is at 60 days of age for the young sow, when young sows that grow and develop quickly, have evenly arranged teats, and have more than 7 pairs of teats are selected and retained. The 2nd stage is when the sow is mature and about to be mated (local pigs at about 7 months of age, exotic breeds at about 8 months of age), when replacement gilts that grow and develop quickly, have a long body, sturdy limbs, a belly that does not sag, and thin backfat are selected and retained for breeding use. The 3rd stage is after the sow has produced 1 litter, when sows that farrow many piglets, have good mothering ability, and have strong lactation capacity are selected and retained for breeding use.