Mating management. While the age at which a young boar can first be used varies between breeds and individuals, the general rule is that a young boar should not be used for service until he is at least 28–30 weeks of age. While the age at which a young boar can first be used varies between breeds and individuals, the general rule is that a young boar should not be used for service until he is at least 28–30 weeks of age. Boars used at too early an age may have their working life considerably shortened and their breeding ability impaired. Training a new boarAs a boar matures (12 months plus), he could be used on two sows per week (double service) to a maximum of six matings per week. Where possible, he should not be used for more than two consecutive days. It must be made clear that there are individual differences between boars, and their ability to mate sows varies greatly.
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At what age should you start using a boar for breeding purposes?
Boar Management
Can use to breed at 6-7 months of age – occasional service; Ensure that first mating is successful. Use a small, quiet sow or gilt in good estrus.
How long can you use a boar for breeding?
Farrowing rate and litter size generally improve as a boar ages from about 9-20 months of age. As long as boars remain structurally sound and are aggressive breeders, fertility is generally maintained until they are three years of age or more.
How long do you keep a boar?
Boars usually have a maximum working life of between 18 and 24 months. This means they should be replaced when they are 30 to 36 months old. It is very important to keep record of the boars’ use so that infertile ones can be detected and replaced as soon as possible.
What is age at first service?
The target age for the first service is advocated to be 18 months, an age when heifers are expected to reach around 300 kg for Holsteins and 275 kg for crossbreeds. Both artificial insemination (AI) and natural service were used as breeding methods.
How old do boars have to be to breed?
Boars should not be used for breeding earlier than 8 months of age. A young boar can be used for 15-20 sows in a season and older ones may be used for about 25-45 sows. A boar can be allowed to serve before being fed. Not more than one service per day is allowed during breeding season.
When can a young boar be used for artificial insemination?
Obviously where artificial insemination is utilised, fewer boars are required. While the age at which a young boar can first be used varies between breeds and individuals, the general rule is that a young boar should not be used for service until he is at least 28–30 weeks of age.
When should you replace a boar?
Where possible, boar replacements should be planned in advance. Far too often young boars are brought in and expected to immediately perform like a mature boar.
How many times can a boar sow in a week?
For the first month and during training, the young boar should be allowed no more than one sow per fortnight, gradually increasing to two sows per week (double service) by the time he is 10–12 months of age.
