Setting up correct management routines around farrowing begins at the pre-farrowing phase, where cleaning, bedding and a specific quality check-list should be in focus. Once the pen has been properly prepared and the farrowing has begun, successful farrowing depends on correct feeding, observation and assistance if needed.

Success in managing hyper prolific sows like the DanBred Hybrid is especially centred around the careful management of the new born piglets; quick access to the udder and to colostrum as well as keeping the piglets warm and dry are key focus areas. Strategies such as split suckling and feeding colostrum can also help ensure piglet health and growth at the important early stage of their lives.

To support the high number of piglets, focussed attention on management and feeding during lactation has not only been proven to support immediate piglet growth, but also improve lifetime productivity. The feeding strategy should therefore centre on feeding for high milk yield to maximise the number of nursing piglets.