The Yorkshire pig, also known as the Large White in Europe, is a pig breed originating from England. The breed is one of the most common commercial pig breeds worldwide, valued for its large litter sizes, rapid growth, and excellent carcass quality. Yorkshires are the most recorded breed in the United States.
The Yorkshire breed was developed in the county of Yorkshire, England, in the 19th century by crossing local pigs with imported Chinese and Leicester breeds. The breed was refined for bacon production and was imported to the United States in the 1830s. The American Yorkshire Club was founded in 1921. Yorkshires have become the dominant commercial sow breed due to their prolificacy.
Yorkshires are large, white pigs with erect ears and a slightly dished face. Mature sows weigh 250 to 350 kilograms and boars weigh 350 to 500 kilograms. The breed has a long, deep body with good muscling. Yorkshires are known for their large litters averaging 10 to 14 piglets, excellent mothering ability, good milk production, and efficient growth. They adapt well to both confinement and pasture systems.
Meat production is the primary purpose of Yorkshire pigs. Their large litters and excellent maternal traits make them ideal as the sow base for breeding operations. Yorkshires are commonly used in crossbreeding programs.