Poland China

The Poland China is a pig breed developed in Ohio, United States. Its name should not be taken to describe a single breed originating directly in Poland or China.

An interesting distinction is that two countries appear in its name, while its formation took place in Ohio. Interpreting a breed name literally as geographic origin causes errors. This is a domestic breed developed through regional crosses and subsequent registration.

A black body with white on the face, feet and tail tip, and drooping ears, is characteristic.

White feet and facial markings on a black body may suggest a Berkshire, but compare the drooping ears as well. The extent of white markings and body type vary individually. Do not describe large, muscular adults and young animals using one fixed set of proportions.

Although black bodies, white feet and white facial markings overlap with Berkshire appearance, forward-drooping ears provide a comparison clue. Do not turn Poland and China in the name into current breeding countries or established ancestry origins.

The breed was selected for meat production. Compare large size and growth tendencies through records specifying age and feeding conditions.

Read the history of selection for meat separately from modern growth records. Body size is affected by sex, age and feed; a giant boar's record is not the average for sows and young pigs. Black color or white markings cannot predict behavior or friendliness.

Even where black-and-white colors resemble a Berkshire, check ear shape and registration information together. Do not use weight tables that fail to distinguish sex and growth stage.

Large adults need space to turn and lie comfortably, with nonslip flooring. Confirm registered names to avoid confusing similarly colored breeds, and provide feed, water, shade and exploratory materials according to actual individual use.