Genetics and Pedigree

• Bloodlines: Ensure the boar comes from a proven, high-quality lineage. The pedigree should be well-documented, showing desirable traits in both the boar’s parents and grandparents.
• Traits to consider: Look for good genetic potential in areas such as growth rate, feed efficiency, reproductive performance, and disease resistance.
• Inbreeding: Avoid inbreeding by selecting a boar that is not closely related to your sows. This helps maintain genetic diversity and reduces the risk of genetic defects.

2. Conformation and Physical Health

• Body Structure: Choose a boar with a strong, well-balanced conformation. Look for good muscling, straight legs, and a strong back. A physically sound boar will pass on these traits to his offspring.
• Health and Vitality: Select a boar that is in excellent health, has a strong immune system, and shows vitality. A healthy boar will have better reproductive performance and pass on better disease resistance to offspring.
• Feet and Legs: Ensure the boar has good foot structure and leg conformation to avoid lameness, which can affect its mobility and overall performance.

3. Reproductive Performance

• Fertility: The boar should have a high fertility rate, meaning he can produce a large number of viable sperm. This is crucial for maximizing the breeding potential.
• Seminal Quality: Check the boar’s semen quality, including sperm count, motility, and morphology. These factors directly influence conception rates in sows.
• Mating Ability: Observe if the boar is eager and effective during mating. A boar with poor libido or mating behavior might not be a good candidate for breeding.

4. Temperament

• Temperament: A boar’s temperament can influence its management and handling. Ideally, the boar should have a calm and manageable temperament to reduce stress during handling and prevent injury to both the boar and the handlers.
• Aggression: While some aggression is normal, excessive aggression can be dangerous and difficult to manage in the breeding herd.

5. Disease Resistance and Health Management

• Disease-Free Status: Ensure the boar is free of transmissible diseases like PRRS (Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome), PED (Porcine Epidemic Diarrhea), and others. The boar should have a clean health record and be regularly tested for common diseases.
• Vaccination: Make sure the boar is up to date on necessary vaccinations to prevent the spread of disease.

6. Age and Size

• Age: Ideally, the boar should be between 1 and 3 years old. A boar that is too old might have reduced fertility and vigor, while a very young boar may not be fully mature or experienced enough for breeding.
• Size: The boar should be large enough to mate efficiently with sows, but not so large that it causes difficulty in breeding or health problems.

7. Performance Data

• Growth Rate and Feed Efficiency: Consider the boar's performance data such as average daily gain (ADG) and feed conversion ratio (FCR). These traits can impact the productivity of his offspring.
• Progeny Performance: If available, review data on the performance of the boar's offspring (growth, health, reproduction). This gives you an idea of how well his genetics perform in a commercial setting.

8. Breeding Purpose

• Market Needs: Consider what traits are most important for your market (e.g., lean meat, fast growth, good muscling). Select a boar that complements the needs of your breeding program.
• Type of Sows: Make sure the boar complements the type of sows in your herd (e.g., large white sows, Landrace). The boar should bring desirable traits that enhance your sows’ strengths.

9. Cost

• Initial Cost: The cost of purchasing a high-quality breeding boar can be significant. Ensure the boar’s potential for improving your herd justifies the expense.
• Maintenance Costs: Don’t forget about the ongoing costs associated with keeping a breeding boar, including feed, housing, and health management.

10. Genetic Testing and Performance Records

• Genomic Testing: If available, use genomic testing to get a better understanding of the boar’s genetic makeup, which can reveal potential strengths and weaknesses in traits like disease resistance or growth.
• Performance Records: Review records of his own performance, including growth, health, and reproduction history. If possible, obtain information on his offspring as well.

By carefully evaluating these factors, you can select a breeding boar that will improve the productivity, health, and profitability of your breeding program.