US Whip, Show Stick Whips for Directing/Steering Swine in the Show Ring (Royal Blue)

Price & Quantities Subject to Availability

How to Use a Pig Whip During Competition

The sooner you start working with your pig and getting them used to the pig whip, the better. It takes time for exhibitors to get used to handling the whip and for the pig to understand what the whip means. When holding the whip, don’t grab it like it’s a pencil. Grasp the handle between the thumb and index finger. Don’t hit your hog with the tip, but use light taps to maneuver them. Teach your show pig that a very light tap between it’s flank and shoulder blade means move forward. A light touch of the whip behind the ear teaches the pig which way to turn.

Train the pig to carry its head level with its shoulder blades while walking, which creates the impression of a long, structurally sound hog that will catch the judge’s eye.  Hogs are clever animals that respond best to a pressure and release style of training. For example, when you’re teaching your hog to turn right, lightly tap them behind their left ear until the hog moves to the right. As soon as the hog moves right, stop tapping, which rewards the hog for their good behavior. Most pigs respond quickly to the pressure and release method of training.

Show pig whips are preferred by competitors who raise and show: Duroc hogs, Hampshire hogs, Berkshire hogs, Chester White hogs, Landrace hogs, Poland China hogs, Yorkshire hogs, and Blue-Butt hogs. Competitors prefer these hog breeds for showing since they tend to have laid-back temperaments that make them easy to handle, have a steady rate of weight gain, and are known for having good conformation. All of these breeds are traditional which are preferred by heritage hog farmers.

Selecting the Perfect Show Pig Whip

Every person has their own preferences when it come to their favorite show pig whip. Some like a longer, more flexible shaft, while others like something that feels sturdier. Some people like one type of handle material, and others refuse to work with any whip that doesn’t have a rubber golf grip handle. Some competitors prefer pig show whips with a popper, while others favor tassels. When choosing your show pig whip, make sure the whip’s grip fits comfortably in your hand and that whip feels balanced. Handle the whip a great deal before making a purchase and make sure it doesn’t cause hand fatigue.