hog

Hog is a common name for the domesticated pig, Sus scrofa domesticus, a mammal in the family Suidae. The term is often used in North America to describe larger pigs or intact adults, especially those kept for meat production, while pig and piglet are broader terms.

Pigs are omnivorous, with a stout body, short legs, and a snout adapted for rooting. They have a variable coat, depending on breed. Mature weight ranges from about 150 to more than 600 pounds (70–300 kg) for large breeds. Lifespan in farming is typically 6–10 years, though individuals can live longer in supportive welfare settings. Pigs are social, intelligent, and have a strong sense of smell.

Pigs reach sexual maturity around 5–8 months. The female is the sow, the male the boar, and a litter averages 6–12 piglets. Domestic breeds include Yorkshire, Duroc, Hampshire, and Berkshire, among others. Production emphasizes rapid growth, feed efficiency, and meat quality. Welfare considerations include enrichment, adequate space, and disease control.

Pigs are raised primarily for pork and by-products, with trimmings used in processed foods and other products. In many regions, feral hogs escape from farms and become an invasive species, causing crop damage and ecological disruption. Management options include trapping, hunting, and fencing.