What is the Difference Between Pig and Hog?

The terms "pig" and "hog" are often used interchangeably to refer to swine, but they generally refer to different stages of a pig's life or size. Here are the key differences between a pig and a hog:

1. Age: A pig is a young swine that is not yet mature, while a hog is a swine that is 3 years or older. In the United States, the term "pig" is used for all wild or domestic swine, regardless of age. In Great Britain, any domesticated swine is referred to as a pig.
2. Size: A pig typically weighs under 120 pounds, while a hog weighs more than 120 pounds.
3. Body Shape: Hogs have stocky bodies, flat snouts, and large ears, while pigs have short legs, cartilaginous snouts, and bristly hair.
4. Reproductive Status: A sow is a female pig that has reached adulthood and is of childbearing age, while a boar is a non-castrated male swine.
5. Habitat: Pigs are typically found on farms, as they are still growing and not yet ready for market, while hogs, due to their larger size, are often found in the wild or in special hunting ranches.
6. Commercial Sales: Pigs, because of their young age and lower weight, are not typically ready to be marketed and sold for meat, while hogs are older and larger, making them more suitable for commercial sales.

In summary, the main differences between pigs and hogs are their age, size, body shape, reproductive status, habitat, and commercial sales. However, these terms are often used interchangeably, and their usage may vary depending on the region or context.

Comparative Table: Pig vs Hog

The terms "pig" and "hog" both refer to swine, but they generally describe different stages of a pig's life or specific characteristics. Here is a table highlighting the differences between pigs and hogs:

Key points:

• Younger animals are called pigs, while they are often called hogs after they reach a certain size.
• The terms pig and hog generally refer to different stages of a pig's life, similar to adolescents and adults.