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Related Experiment Videos

Aggressive behavior of sows at parturition.

H A van der Steen1, L R Schaeffer, H de Jong

  • 1Anim. Breed. Dept., Agricultural University, Wageningen, The Netherlands.

Journal of Animal Science
|February 1, 1988
PubMed
Summary

Aggressive behavior in sows towards piglets can cause injury or death. Low sow weight at first farrowing may increase this aggression, which has moderate heritability, suggesting selection against it is possible.

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Area of Science:

  • Animal Science
  • Behavioral Genetics
  • Swine Production

Background:

  • Aggressive behavior in sows, particularly primiparous ones, at parturition poses a significant risk to piglets, leading to wounding or mortality.
  • Understanding the frequency, environmental factors, and heritability of this behavior is crucial for improving swine welfare and productivity.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the frequency and influencing factors of aggressive behavior in sows during parturition.
  • To estimate the heritability of aggressive behavior in swine.
  • To explore potential strategies for reducing aggressive behavior in sows.

Main Methods:

  • Analysis of two large datasets (923 and 925 first litters) from experimental and commercial breeding farms.
  • Statistical analysis of fixed effects (year, season, feeding level) and regression analysis of aggression on sow weight, backfat, and litter size.

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  • Estimation of heritability using paternal half-sib and daughter-dam regression methods, supplemented by a simulation study for maternal effects.

    • Main Results:

    • Aggressiveness frequency ranged from 7-12% and was not significantly affected by year, season, or gilt feeding level.
    • A significant negative regression of aggression on postpartum sow weight was observed, indicating low weight predisposes sows to aggression.
    • Heritability estimates for aggressiveness varied, with daughter-dam regression suggesting higher values (.49, .87) potentially influenced by maternal effects.

    Conclusions:

    • Low postpartum weight in sows may be a predisposing factor for aggressive behavior towards piglets.
    • Aggressive behavior in sows exhibits moderate heritability, allowing for potential genetic selection.
    • Selection strategies, such as choosing boars and gilts from non-aggressive dams, can be implemented, though response may be slow at low frequencies. Advanced breeding value estimation is needed for higher frequencies.