The term “hog” describes the species Sus scrofa, encompassing domestic pigs, miniature breeds, and wild or feral swine. Because of this wide biological range, a hog’s lifespan is highly variable and depends entirely on its living environment and purpose. Longevity reflects management, diet, health care access, and whether the life is determined by natural constraints or economic efficiency.
Lifespan of Production Hogs
Hogs raised in commercial agricultural settings have the shortest lifespan, driven by the economic need for rapid growth and efficiency. Pigs destined for the food market are typically slaughtered at a young age, reaching their target weight of around 280 pounds in six to seven months. The vast majority of production hogs live for less than a year.
A small fraction, specifically breeding stock like sows and boars, is kept longer to maintain herd genetics. A sow’s productive life is measured in parities (litters) and they are removed from the herd when productivity declines, usually between three and six years of age. Culling ensures the herd remains economically viable, meaning breeding stock is removed well before reaching its biological maximum lifespan.
Longevity of Pet and Miniature Pigs
Hogs kept as pets, particularly miniature breeds like the Potbelly or Kunekune, have the potential for the longest lifespan, often living 15 to 20 years. This longevity is achieved through controlled environments and dedicated veterinary care. These domestic swine are considered seniors around 10 years of age, reflecting the commitment required from owners for long-term care.
The biggest threat to a pet pig’s longevity is obesity, which leads to secondary health issues like arthritis and heart disease. Owners must manage caloric intake carefully, as miniature pigs are prone to weight gain, sometimes weighing between 100 to 150 pounds when mature. Preventative care is also important, including regular hoof and tusk trimming, along with annual physical and dental exams to catch problems early.
Average Age of Wild and Feral Swine
The life expectancy for wild boars and feral swine living outside of managed care is significantly shorter than that of pets. While the biological maximum lifespan in the wild can reach 9 to 10 years, the average age is often much lower, frequently falling into the range of four to eight years due to environmental pressures. Mortality is particularly high among juveniles, with up to 50% of a litter potentially succumbing to threats during the first three months of life.
The primary factors limiting the age of adult feral swine are human-related, with hunting pressure being a major cause of death. Survival is also constrained by competition for limited food resources and exposure to harsh weather conditions. Feral swine are reservoirs for numerous diseases and parasites, which contribute to premature mortality in the absence of veterinary intervention.
Key Determinants of Swine Lifespan
The difference in lifespan between a six-month-old market hog and a 20-year-old pet pig is explained by three determinants: diet, disease management, and genetics.
Diet Quality and Caloric Intake are paramount, evidenced by high obesity rates in overfed pets and resource scarcity limiting the survival of wild populations. Production animals require formulations high in protein and fat for rapid growth, which contrasts with the restricted, maintenance diet needed for a long-lived pet.
Veterinary Care and Disease Management plays a direct role in longevity through preventative medicine. Pets receive vaccinations and parasite control, while wild populations are constantly exposed to diseases like swine brucellosis without treatment. Genetics and Breed selection also contributes to longevity, as miniature breeds are predisposed to a longer life than commercial breeds selected for fast growth and large size. The short life of a production hog results from a system designed for efficiency, while the long life of a pet results from dedicated intervention against disease and environmental hardship.