Keeping pigs

Pigs are one of the most rewarding animals you can put on a smallholding, and one of the most misunderstood. They're clever, characterful and brilliant at turning a rough patch of ground into workable soil. They're also strong, single-minded, and wrapped in more paperwork than any other back-garden livestock in Britain.

This is our hub for keeping pigs in the UK. Start with the beginner's guide below for the honest picture of what it takes, from choosing your first two weaners to getting the legal side right before a single trotter arrives. Then dig into the cluster for breeds, housing and health as you go.