Pigs: Large White

Country of Origin 

England

Australian Status

International Status

Vulnerable in its home country the UK.

Breeds traits

A large, lean white breed. Sows weight around 260-300kg and boars, 350-380kg. have distinctive prick ears. They are good maternal pigs producing large litters ( average litter size is around 11-12 piglets/litter), and abundant milk for their piglets. Large Whites are admirably suited to commercial production systems but are also able to thrive outdoors if “weathered off“ correctly.

History

The Large White was developed in England in the late 1700's and has become well established as a major breed in most commercial pig breeding countries including Australia.

Early heritage indicates that a small Chinese pig was crossed with white pigs from Yorkshire and nearby counties.  This cross formed the basis of the Small White, Middle White and Large White breeds.

Early stud breeders in Australia embraced the Large White although back in the early days it looked more similar to a Tamworth and the breed was heavily developed to become the magnificent modern pig that it is. There is anecdotal evidence from Stud breeders that whites have got shorter so they suit farrowing crates better, there seem to be pigs around that support this and it would be a shame to lose the length that this breed is capable of.

Breed Organisation

Australian Pig Breeders Association

Australian Population

2025: 9 registrations, 4 herds

Photo credit

Glen Eyrie Rare Breed Farm. Photo by Jaycee-Morgan, NSW DEPI

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