ABSTRACT
Pigs and minipigs used in research establishments are descended from wild boar and retain many of their behavior patterns that have been of evolutionary importance. Domestication and selective breeding for characteristics desirable to humans have resulted in little change in behavioral predispositions. As a result, there are important behavioral needs that must be taken into account in the housing and management of domestic pigs, if welfare is not to be compromised. Foremost among these needs are a stable social environment, a supported weaning transition, and a stimulating physical environment that provides opportunities for establishing separate functional areas and appropriate expression of foraging, exploratory, and nest-building behavior. When these needs are not adequately met, abnormal behaviors can develop. Some of these, such as oral stereotypies, are indicative of welfare impairment in the individual exhibiting them. Others, such as elevated aggression and tail, ear, and flank biting, may additionally be injurious to other individuals in the group. Experimental protocols often expose research pigs to additional stressors. Therefore, specific considerations must be applied to pen design and handling protocols, including appropriate training for procedures, as compromised welfare may not only affect the individual pig, but may also compromise the study outcome.
