APP Breed Development: Why Seven Generations?

In animal breeding, achieving consistency in traits, performance, and genetic stability takes time—and generations. That’s why the 7th generation (F7) is a widely accepted standard in the livestock world for establishing a new breed. But what makes 7 generations so important?

💡 Here’s Why 7 Generations is the Standard:

1. Genetic Stability: It takes multiple generations of selective breeding to establish and stabilize the traits that define a breed. By the 7th generation, genetic traits like growth, temperament, and performance are consistently passed down from parents to offspring. This consistency allows breeders to predictably reproduce desired traits with each new generation.

2. Breed Integrity: For a line to be considered a “pure” breed, it must consistently meet specific standards over time. In the case of the American Pasture Pig, reaching F7 ensures that pigs not only carry the physical and genetic traits defined in the APPS Standard of Excellence, but that they reliably pass these traits on, securing the breed’s future.

3. Performance Testing: Each generation provides a chance to evaluate and select for key traits such as growth rates, temperament, health, and pasture efficiency. By the 7th generation, breeders have enough data to confirm the breed reliably performs as expected. This reliability makes the APP a dependable, pasture-adapted breed.

4. Proven Lineage: The 7-generation process solidifies the lineage of the breed. With each registered generation, parentage is verified through DNA, ensuring a clear and documented genetic history. By F7, the line has a proven ancestry, free from inconsistencies, aligning with APPS’ commitment to transparency.

🐷 For the American Pasture Pig (APP)—The Practical Pasture Pig:

• At F7, pigs are officially considered purebred APPs, fully reflecting the breed’s Standard of Excellence.

• Farmers benefit from pigs developed for pasture-based systems and the ability to consistently pass these qualities to future generations.

• Consumers can trust that APP pork comes from pigs refined over generations for quality, efficiency, and sustainability.

So, when you hear us talk about F7 at APPS, you know it represents the culmination of years of careful breeding, tracking, and selection. It ensures that the American Pasture Pig is a breed you can trust for its practicality and performance.

📢 Explore More on Our Website! We’re continually updating the APPS website with detailed information about the American Pasture Pig, their unique traits, and valuable resources for breeders. Membership options will be available soon, so be sure to check back regularly and stay connected as we share exciting updates about the development of the APP breed!