First if you buy your pigs, do it from a reputable breeder.
o Look for a pig that is healthy and alert.
o Find a pig that has a good skin coat and eyes are clear.

Now that you found that, what else? Muscle? Leanness?
o I would say first you look for a pig that is sound on both rear and front legs.
o Make sure the hog can walk without problems.
o Let's build them from the ground up.
o Make sure all the pigs toes are even and it walks with its legs on the corners.
o Next, make sure it has adequate foot size.
o Look from the profile and make sure that it's top line is smooth over the shoulders.
o Get behind and on top.
o Make sure the shoulder blades are widely placed.
o As you look over the top and from the side, look at its rib dimension.
o You want a hog with internal dimension….build them from the inside out now.
o Make sure it is level in it's hip. By that I mean the tail head is placed up high and the hog is not steep coming out of it's tail head.
o Look for body length and frame size.
o Look for length through it's neck and head, BUT DON'T pick a tiny headed pig. Those pigs are usually hard to feed and grow.
o Now after you have that, go back and look at the amount of muscle volume and muscle shape. Make sure it has adequate leanness.

What is the most important part after you get home with the pig?
o WATER!
o Clean and abundant.
o Make sure the hog is drinking.
o Another suggestion when you get home with your hog is to check with your vet about a possible antibiotic regime you might give the hog upon arrival.
o Make sure your feed is medicated as well.
o Make sure you de-worm the hogs you buy.
o Make sure you have the pen bedded well.
o Shavings or straw, either one will do well.
o I prefer shavings.
o Keep the pen clean.
o Take time with the animal.
o GET TO KNOW THEM!

SHOW DAY!
o Make sure the hog is clean and presented in its best possible way.
o KNOW WHO THE JUDGE IS!
o Be patient, the hog can read you if you are nervous or upset.
o Have fun!
o Have your "tools" ready
- Cane, whip, or pipe to drive.
- Brush
- Spray bottle or watering can of water.
- Possibly a towel.