Question, kind of a dumb one because I think I know the answer already (genetics) but:
Is there any way to add mass (muscle) to a show pigs legs outside of inherited genetics?
Our main show we raise for is a lottery type program. The breeders are already chosen and the kids have to pick from the pigs present during selection. For the 3 years most of the pigs shown (roughly 90-95%) have "slim" legs. There are a few that have the wide, thick, muscular looking legs. Is this simply the genetic traits or is there a feed/supplement that can address this? Like a higher protein feed or topdress that addresses the pigs overall muscle makeup but will help with the legs as well? Or an exercise routine?
Thanks in advance for indulging me in this question.
Thick Legs
Thick Legs
FFA Raiser
Local Jackpots and a Major or two each year
Pigs are usually Hampshire or Blue Butt
Local Jackpots and a Major or two each year
Pigs are usually Hampshire or Blue Butt
Re: Thick Legs
Are you asking about the hams (muscle area above the hocks) or the legs themselves (area of hock to the ground called bone)?
Dr. Kevin Burgoon
Purina® Honor® Show Chow® Nutritionist
http://www.PurinaMills.com/Show-Feed
http://www.facebook.com/HonorShowChow
http://www.twitter.com/HonorShowChow
If you have the power to do good for someone...use it. Proverbs 3:27
Purina® Honor® Show Chow® Nutritionist
http://www.PurinaMills.com/Show-Feed
http://www.facebook.com/HonorShowChow
http://www.twitter.com/HonorShowChow
If you have the power to do good for someone...use it. Proverbs 3:27
Re: Thick Legs
KGB,
Yes Sir. Below the hams and front shoulders (the legs themselves).
This is why I said kind of a "dumb" question because I figured it takes big bone genetics.
With options available for the kids to pick from (FFA ISD approved and provided breeders), we've never placed below 6th in class but, we always wind up with "skinny" legs with no real girth to them which in my eyes, detracts from the full package look. Past pigs have had great structural make up, they fill out and muscle up well and place well (3rd and 4th in class this year) just never get the thick, girthy legs.
Just trying to make sure I am not missing anything on my feed plans that they could benefit from for next year.
I can't seemed to attach any photos or I'd send photos of their pigs from this year.
Yes Sir. Below the hams and front shoulders (the legs themselves).
This is why I said kind of a "dumb" question because I figured it takes big bone genetics.
With options available for the kids to pick from (FFA ISD approved and provided breeders), we've never placed below 6th in class but, we always wind up with "skinny" legs with no real girth to them which in my eyes, detracts from the full package look. Past pigs have had great structural make up, they fill out and muscle up well and place well (3rd and 4th in class this year) just never get the thick, girthy legs.
Just trying to make sure I am not missing anything on my feed plans that they could benefit from for next year.
I can't seemed to attach any photos or I'd send photos of their pigs from this year.
FFA Raiser
Local Jackpots and a Major or two each year
Pigs are usually Hampshire or Blue Butt
Local Jackpots and a Major or two each year
Pigs are usually Hampshire or Blue Butt
Re: Thick Legs
The number one thing affecting bone is genetics. However, age also affects what bone “looks like”. As pigs grow older they look like they have bigger legs because of cartilage.
Hair can also impact the look of bone. This is why in the past few years people are feeding and showing older pigs with a lot more hair.
Hair can also impact the look of bone. This is why in the past few years people are feeding and showing older pigs with a lot more hair.
Dr. Kevin Burgoon
Purina® Honor® Show Chow® Nutritionist
http://www.PurinaMills.com/Show-Feed
http://www.facebook.com/HonorShowChow
http://www.twitter.com/HonorShowChow
If you have the power to do good for someone...use it. Proverbs 3:27
Purina® Honor® Show Chow® Nutritionist
http://www.PurinaMills.com/Show-Feed
http://www.facebook.com/HonorShowChow
http://www.twitter.com/HonorShowChow
If you have the power to do good for someone...use it. Proverbs 3:27