🐷 8 Weeks Out — Selection & Foundation
Weeks 8–7
Select your pig — weight, structure, muscleTarget a pig that will make show weight. Know your class weight ranges before you buy.
Confirm health — no signs of respiratory issues, good legsCheck feet, shoulders, topline. Any limping or labored breathing — pass.
Set up a clean, ventilated penTemperature matters — pigs don't sweat. 65–75°F is ideal. Fan in summer is a must.
Start your feed programTalk to your county agent or barn. Most use a high-protein starter, then finish feed at weeks 3–4.
Begin halter work — 15 min per dayStart slow. The pig has to learn to move with pressure, not fight it.
Weigh pig and record — track weeklyYou need to know your daily gain rate to hit show weight. Get a scale or a weight tape.
💡 Early mistake: Don't pick the pig with the biggest frame if it doesn't have muscle shape. A compact, muscular pig will beat a long-bodied, soft pig every time.
📋 6 Weeks Out — Feeding & Conditioning
Weeks 6–5
Adjust feed based on weekly weight gainTarget 1.5–2 lbs/day of gain depending on starting weight and show date.
Add exercise — 15–20 min daily walkingWalking builds muscle tone and tightens the front end. Don't let them get lazy.
Begin washing routine — 2× per week minimumWarm water, hog soap. Get them used to the hose. Use a soft brush on the skin.
Continue halter and show stick workWork on standing square. Reward when they hold it.
Evaluate topline and hip shapeIf soft in the top, increase exercise. If too tight and drawn, adjust feed up.
💪 4 Weeks Out — Muscle & Movement
Weeks 4–3
Switch to finish feed (if not already)Your county extension agent or barn can recommend a specific finisher for your pig type.
Increase showmanship practice — 20–30 min dailyDrive from behind with the stick. Work on quick repositioning. Get the feet under them.
Practice show-pen situations — strangers, noise, crowdsLet other people approach and handle the pig. You want calm, not spooky.
Wash 3× per week — brush coat direction dailyCoat direction matters in the show ring. Brush backward to front to lay it flat and tight.
Check entry deadlines and get registeredDon't miss this. Most county fairs have firm deadlines and late entries aren't accepted.
✅ 2 Weeks Out — Final Prep
Weeks 2–1
Target weight check — are you on track?If light: feed up and reduce exercise. If heavy: reduce feed slightly and walk more. Don't panic.
Confirm all show paperworkEntry confirmation, parent signatures, breed papers, fair health requirements.
Practice in show clothesYou need to be comfortable too. Make sure you can move freely and drive from behind in your show pants and boots.
Evaluate show-day coat — start oil treatment if neededSkin-tight, shiny coat beats a dry, dull one. Mineral oil rubbed into skin daily the last 2 weeks helps.
Pack your show box / supply list
🏆 Show Day — Morning Through Ring
Feed light — no full belly before the show
Warm wash + blow dry (if available)
Apply oil or shine product to skin
Brush coat flat and forward
Clean hooves — trim if needed
Walk pig before entering — settle them down
Know your class order and weigh-in time
Get to the ring 15 min early
Watch the class ahead of you
Keep your eyes on the judge — move when they look
Stay between judge and pig at all times
Smile — you've earned this
💡 In the ring: The judge is watching the pig, but they're also watching you. Stay calm, move deliberately, and always keep your pig's best side toward the judge. If they stop looking at your pig — move.
🧰 Show Box — Pack This Every Time
Show stick (whip)
Hog brush (soft + stiff)
Mineral oil or pig shine spray
Washing soap (hog shampoo)
Hoof trimmers
Small water bowl / sprayer
Extra halter + lead
Paper towels + rags
Entry paperwork
Ear tags or ID info
Show clothes (in bag)
Safety pins for number
Snacks + water (for you)
Phone (charged)