DanBred genetics are developed to deliver robust and productive pigs that become stronger and more viable generation after generation. In just two years, piglet survival has increased by 1.6 percentage points in herds using DanBred genetics – and even more progress is expected.
Many may not be aware, but well over half of the breeding goal for DanBred genetics focuses on improving pig robustness – and this has been the case for several years. In fact, 69% of the total genetic progress from DanBred comes from increased survival among piglets and sows, all-round robustness, and enhanced mothering ability in the sow. These four factors all contribute to improved pig health and welfare in the herd.
Piglet survival is increasing
For years, DanBred genetics have focused on improving piglet survival. In 2022, the introduction of two new traits for piglet survival led to significant increases in survival rates. Since then, piglet survival has improved by nearly one percentage point annually. Although genetic progress takes time, DanBred genetics have been on the right track towards higher survival rates for several years.
The Danish Agriculture & Food Council, which stands behind the breeding goal for DanBred genetics, has previously stated that the latest key numbers from 2025 in Denmark indicate the lowest piglet mortality rate in 25 years.
In the breeding program, both pigs with strong genetic potential for survival and sows with high genetic potential to rear piglets successfully are selected. This is a well-balanced approach to securing higher survival. As a result, DanBred pigs in your herd have an increased potential for survival – and this improves year by year.
Thygrisen: The sow produces more milk
The DanBred sow has proven, several times, that she can often wean 1-2 more piglets than the number of functional teats she has.
This is also the experience at Thygrisen. Here, they find that the DanBred sow produces more milk than their previous genetics, and they have no issues handling large litters. The sows gets 15–16 piglets regardless of the number of teats – and currently, the herd achieves 15 piglets weaned per litter.
By focusing on maternal rearing ability, sow milk production improves, enhancing her ability to care for more piglets and wean heavier litters. The DanBred sow helps ensure that piglets get a strong and robust start in life.
At Thygrisen, they also experience vigorous piglets from birth. In the farrowing unit, staff spend very little time assisting farrowings, as the sows manage well on their own and achieve only 0.8 stillborn piglets per litter. This results in excellent performance in the farrowing unit, where even the smallest piglets thrive.
Robust pigs – generation after generation
The right genetics help ensure healthy and resilient pigs throughout their productive lives. In a world where pig productivity has improved significantly, robustness must keep pace – the two are interdependent.
The balanced breeding goal behind DanBred genetics ensures continuous genetic progress in robustness and survival, resulting in healthy pigs that thrive.
