Consequences of selection for lean growth and prolificacy on piglet survival and sow attribute traits

Pig breeding programs focus on growth and carcase composition traits in the growing pig as well as higher reproductive performance of sows leading to considerable genetic gain in these traits. These changes in genetic potential have consequences for piglet survival and husbandry requirements of sows. For example, comparison of body composition and physiological state of piglets from boars born in 1977 versus 1998 showed that selection had resulted in lower maturity of piglets at birth Canario et al., 2007). Further, Ball et al. (2008) reviewed nutrient requirements of sows concluding that recommendations have not kept pace with the increases in animal performance.