Creating A Herd From 3 Hutches

[Cassiedog]

I'm looking to integrate my 3 hutches (8 piggies) in a few weeks time when we move house and gain a bigger shed.
Is it best just to put them all in together or to bond one group with another then add the next one?

 

[Lady Kelly]

I think the problem with bonding one group at a time is the added stress and upset to the pigs. Obviously each change will warrant a full dominance dance etc with the pigs so you might be better trying it all at once... that said it depends how many pigs you are talking about and whether you could manage yourself if all hell broke loose

 

[Wiebke]

I'm looking to integrate my 3 hutches (8 piggies) in a few weeks time when we move house and gain a bigger shed.
Is it best just to put them all in together or to bond one group with another then add the next one?

It is best to do it all in one go on neutral territory. The crucial bit is usually whether the leaders will gel or not; not all are prepared to step down. Larger groups have different dynamics to pairs, trios or small groups.
Please carefully read our various guides at the top of this section.

What genders are your piggies? Please accept that more than one neutered boar or all boars won't work.

 

[Cassiedog]

Hi. Thanks. I've read the post on bonding at the top of the page but most of it concentrates on boars and mine are all sows.
I have one girl in particular, Shandy, who may be a problem as I've tried introducing her before to others and she fought with them. If things don't work out with her I could always get her a neutered boar to live with and keep the other 7 together.
All your tips and experiences are welcome