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American
Guinea Hogs
The
Guinea hog is not a guinea pig
nor is it a potbelly pig. The
Guinea hog is small, weighing
150-250 pounds and standing about
17 inches as an adult. They are
black and often hairy with upright
ears, and a curly tail. Our hogs
are long and lean. They have the
appearance of a small bacon hog,
although they are classified as
a lard hog.
The
background of the guinea hog is
mysterious. There is some discussion
of them having a West African
origin with Essex blood mixed
in as well. Guinea hogs are unique
to America. In the late 1800's
to early 1900's, they were a popular
breed. In recent decades, the
guinea hog became rare. In fact,
at one time there were only 35
left in the country. As of 2006
there are less than 200 (ALBC).
 The
guinea hog is well suited to small
livestock production, as it has
a happy demeanor. Guinea hogs
are very tamable and gentle. Historically,
Guinea hogs were used to keep
away snakes, eat household refuse,
and provide pork and lard for
the family.
The
guinea hog is more of a browser
than other breeds. However, they
are quite capable of cleaning
up weedy area and acting as tillers
to turn the soil. We have come
to call them our little gardener.
The
guinea hog is very intelligent.
Most of ours will come to their
names and "set" for
an ear scratch or a treat. There
are five bloodlines left of these
magnificent creatures. Our original
stock came from Skyfire Farm and
has three of the major bloodlines--Ohio,
Nebraska, and Virginia.
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