Intensive (commercial) systems for breeding sows and piglets to weaning

Abstract This chapter describes and discusses some of the present day housing systems in the breeding section, dry sow unit and farrowing and lactation units in commercial pig production. These are ‘intensive systems’, wherein an attempt is made to have an efficient use of the available resources in the northern temperate zone. The recent and the future developments are briefly considered. The biological requirements of the animals at the different production stages and the problems encountered are also explained, especially with respect to welfare and commercial requirements. In addition the role of the stockperson for the success of these systems is noted.

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