Housing/Shelter

A-frame shelters are a great way to provide not only shelter for Idaho Pasture piglets, but adults as well. Pigs give off a lot of their own heat, so in the colder months, the shorter height and the overall design of the A-frame allows for the heat to rise up and then hit the peak. Once it hits the peak, the heat will naturally come back down on top of the pigs and they are thereby heating themselves. This when combined with nice dry bedding such as straw, serves to keep the pigs extremely warm without the use of heat lamps.

The A-frame shelter also works extremely well for farrowing for two reason: the first reason is the same as the previously mentioned heat. Heat lamps are rarely required even in the most extreme weather conditions because the heat given off from the sow is able to come right back down on top of her and the piglets and keep them sufficiently warm. The second reason is because as the sow walks into the shelter, her back will naturally hit the slanted roof and she will lay down. This provides a space behind her for the piglets and aids in preventing the sow from laying on any.

We have been using this size shelter for many years and it is a perfect size for boars and sows alike. The breed standard pigs can comfortably fit 3 – 5 adults into the shelter. We recommend putting 3/4 inch treated plywood on both of the sides and cutting a triangle section to completely cover the back. The 3/4 inch provides for heat loss as well as protection from the wind and sun. The front is left completely open and situated with the front opening facing away from the direct wind. In the hot climates, it is a good idea to leave the back and front open to allow the wind to blow through and help keep the pigs cooler. We, personally, use straw for the cold winter months and leave the ground bare so the pigs can lay in the cool dirt for the warmer summer months. .

There are many different options for shelter and finding what works best for you and your climate is going to be the most important thing for the overall health and well-being of your pigs.