Swine

The 4-H Swine Program offers Tennessee youth the opportunity to develop valuable skills through raising, exhibiting, and judging pigs. Participants gain hands-on experience in animal care, breeding, and management while learning responsibility and problem-solving in real-life situations. Whether you’re interested in market swine or breeding programs, the 4-H Swine Project provides a fun and educational way to learn about the swine industry. This program helps youth build leadership, teamwork, and communication skills that will benefit them for years to come.



Shows and Events

From county fairs to regional and state-level events, 4-H members have many opportunities to showcase their swine projects throughout the year. Showing pigs allows youth to demonstrate their knowledge, dedication, and hard work in raising, caring for, and training their animals.

To find local swine shows near you, contact your county Extension office.

The Tennessee State 4-H Swine Expo also features additional contests and activities, such as:

  • Poster Contest
  • Photography Contest
  • Graphic Design Contest
  • Career Development Contest
  • Swine Show Sales Talk

These events offer participants the opportunity to refine their skills, engage with the community, and connect with other swine enthusiasts from across the state.

For Tennessee 4-H State Junior Swine Show details and resources, click the link!


Swine Project Toolkit

  • Coming Soon!

Follow the links below to find some great online resources for your project.

  • Plan and conduct a swine showmanship clinic for younger members.
  • Arrange questions and hold a swine quiz bowl.
  • Volunteer your baby pig for an Ag-in-the-classroom event at school.
  • Learn the basics of raising and caring for pigs, including feeding, grooming, and maintaining a clean living environment.
  • Study common swine diseases and learn about preventive care, such as vaccinations and parasite control.
  • Explore swine breeding practices, genetics, and how to select pigs for desirable traits such as size, conformation, and health.
  • Learn about the nutritional needs of pigs and how proper feeding impacts their growth, health, and performance.
  • Raise pigs for market, tracking their growth and preparing them for sale at local or state events.