by Diane Jaramillo

Created on: February 21, 2009

Durocs are some of the sweetest hogs in the world. They are just very happy pigs that always seem to have a smile on their face. They are mellow, easy going animals with no worries in life. Nothing bothers a Duroc hog. That is one reason they are one of the most popular breeds in the United States.

Durocs are characterized by a distinctive red color and floppy ears. The red color can vary from golden red to a very dark red. Their very mobile noses are always moving, sniffing the air, rooting in the dirt, digging a mudhole, etc. Always moving, unless, of course, they are sleeping, which they do a lot of. After all, they have nothing to worry about.

Durocs are a popular breed for many reasons. One of those reasons is it's personality. Another reason is that a Duroc hog is a very easy keeper. They gain weight easily and the sows have large litters. A typical litter is anywhere form 6 to 12 pigs. Durocs are good mothers as well. It's unusual for a Duroc sow to lose her babies for any reason, if properly fed and cared for.

Boars are popular as sires because, as I said before, they are very easy going. They get along with most other breeds, so even the most obnoxious sow will have a hard time upsetting a Duroc boar enough to actually savage her. Don't get me wrong, now. These are very large animals with large, sharp tusks and can be very dangerous. You just have to try to upset them, unlike some other breeds I could name.

Duroc cross-breeds are also very popular. As stated before, they are very easy going, so they can be cross bred with most other breeds of hog. Duroc/Hampshire, Duroc/Poland China, and Duroc/Yorkshire are very popular crossbreeds. The floppy ears and sweet personality breed true and the red color also appears in some shape or form. Duroc/Hamp crosses are characterized by red bodies with a white belt and floppy ears. Duroc/Poland China crosses have the red color (usually more of a golden red) with black spots.

Since both Duroc and Poland China pigs are very mellow, these crosses are some of my favorites. Not only are they adorable with the floppy ears, but you can do anything with them. I've found that this cross is the easiest type of pig to teach tricks too. They can be taught to fetch, heel, and walk on a leash. They are very anxious to please and love to have their ears scratched. However, they are never happier than with a full tummy and a very muddy pen.

If you want to see a very cute pig with a lot of personality, my advice is to find your nearest Duroc breeder and drop by. Just remember to take some carrots and your ear-scratching equipment. You wont' be able to resist.

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