7 Best Pig Feeders For Small Backyard Herds

Raising pigs on a small scale is a rewarding endeavor that quickly turns into a logistical puzzle when feed waste and weight gain become daily priorities. Choosing the right feeder isn’t just about dumping grain into a container; it is about managing herd behavior, protecting your feed budget, and ensuring every pig gets its fair share. The following guide highlights the most effective feeders for backyard herds, balancing durability, cost, and practical farm-life utility.

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Brower 48″ Trough Feeder: Best Overall Value

The Brower 48-inch trough feeder is the gold standard for versatility in a small-scale setting. Its open design allows multiple pigs to eat simultaneously, reducing the social friction that often leads to bullying during meal times. Because it lacks complex lids or complicated mechanisms, it is remarkably easy to clean and sanitize between batches.

Constructed from heavy-duty galvanized steel, this feeder holds up well against the typical abuse pigs dish out. The lack of moving parts means there is very little that can break, rust, or jam, making it a reliable workhorse for a busy farm.

This is the ideal choice if the goal is simplicity and longevity without breaking the bank. While it lacks the automated feed-flow control of larger hoppers, it provides a consistent, reliable feeding platform for herds of varying sizes.

Fortiflex Rubber Feed Pan: Best Budget Option

Sometimes, the simplest solution is the most effective, especially for small herds or individual pigs that need supplemental rations. The Fortiflex rubber feed pan is nearly indestructible, resisting cracking even in freezing temperatures or after being trampled by a heavy sow. It is flexible, lightweight, and can be moved across the pasture or pen in seconds.

Because these pans sit on the ground, they are best suited for situations where feed waste is less of a concern or for feeding wet mashes and kitchen scraps. Their low profile makes them perfect for piglets or smaller breeds that might struggle to reach into elevated troughs.

Budget-conscious farmers should stock several of these to accommodate rotating pastures or quarantine pens. While they require daily manual filling, their low cost and sheer durability make them an essential tool for any small farm inventory.

Tarter Single-Sided Feeder: Reduces Feed Waste

Feed waste is the fastest way to shrink profit margins on a backyard farm. The Tarter single-sided feeder is designed specifically to mitigate this issue with a protected trough that prevents pigs from rooting through their grain and spilling it onto the barn floor. By limiting how much feed is accessible at one time, it forces the animals to eat rather than scatter.

The solid construction ensures that even aggressive eaters cannot easily tip it over or damage the integrity of the feed chute. It provides a more controlled feeding environment than an open trough, which is particularly useful if expensive specialty feeds are being utilized.

For farmers dealing with messy eaters or limited storage space, this is a top-tier investment. It turns the feeding process into a cleaner, more efficient operation that pays for itself in saved grain within a few short cycles.

Behlen Country Poly Feeder: Most Durable Pick

If the priority is equipment that survives the elements and the rough nature of livestock, the Behlen Country poly feeder is the definitive choice. Unlike metal feeders that can develop sharp edges after repeated impact, high-density polyethylene is resilient, non-corrosive, and surprisingly quiet. It stands up to sunlight, moisture, and the persistent rooting behavior of curious hogs.

The smooth surfaces of the poly construction are also significantly easier to keep clean, preventing the buildup of moldy feed or debris that can harbor bacteria. It is lightweight enough to reposition but sturdy enough to remain upright during heavy use.

This feeder is recommended for farmers who want to “buy it once.” While the upfront cost is higher than a simple metal trough, the maintenance savings and long-term durability make it a superior value for a permanent pen setup.

Sioux Steel Hog Feeder: For Less Frequent Refills

When labor time is the scarcest resource, a gravity-fed hopper system becomes a necessity rather than a luxury. The Sioux Steel hog feeder is a robust, high-capacity solution that allows for several days of autonomous feeding, which is perfect for farmers who have work commitments away from the property.

The gravity-flow mechanism is well-engineered to prevent clogging while maintaining a consistent level in the trough. Because it holds a larger volume, the herd can feed on a self-regulated schedule rather than waiting for a specific morning or evening feeding time.

This unit is specifically for the serious hobbyist managing a consistent herd size over a long duration. If the aim is to minimize daily chores without sacrificing herd health, this feeder is an excellent investment.

Little Giant Creep Feeder: Best for Farrowing

The needs of piglets are vastly different from those of mature sows, and the Little Giant Creep Feeder recognizes this distinction. This feeder is specifically designed with a low opening that allows piglets to access high-protein starter rations while preventing the sow from stealing their food. It is an essential tool for ensuring healthy weaning weights and minimizing developmental stress.

The compact size fits easily into farrowing crates or small nursery pens. Its design ensures that the feed remains dry and accessible only to the smallest members of the herd, giving them a head start without competition.

For anyone raising piglets beyond the weaning stage, this feeder is an absolute necessity. It ensures that the youngest pigs receive the nutrition they need at a critical time in their growth, leading to better overall outcomes for the farm.

Kane Fence-Line Feeder: Easiest to Install

Efficiency on a farm is often dictated by the layout of the pens, and the Kane fence-line feeder excels in space-constrained environments. By mounting directly onto a fence line, this feeder allows the farmer to fill the trough from outside the pen, completely eliminating the need to enter the enclosure. This simple design feature drastically reduces the daily physical effort and stress associated with feeding time.

The material is heavy-duty and designed to withstand the pressure of pigs pushing against it from the inside. It is a fantastic option for farmers who want to simplify their daily routine while keeping their interaction with the animals safe and organized.

This feeder is the ideal choice for those who value time management and pen organization. It keeps the feeding area separate from the sleeping or rooting areas, helping to maintain a cleaner, more hygienic environment for the entire herd.

How to Choose the Right Feeder For Your Pigs

Choosing a feeder requires evaluating your herd size, the types of feed you provide, and the frequency with which you can visit the barn. Start by calculating the volume of feed your pigs require per day; a feeder that is too small will require multiple daily trips, while one that is too large can lead to feed spoilage in humid environments.

Consider the following factors before purchasing: * Capacity: Ensure the feeder holds enough for 24-48 hours of intake. * Material: Galvanized steel is classic and strong; poly is rust-proof and quieter. * Accessibility: Choose a height appropriate for the age and size of your current pigs. * Portability: Determine if the feeder needs to be moved between pastures.

Do not overlook the importance of placement. A feeder placed in a low-lying, damp area of the pen will quickly become a breeding ground for parasites, regardless of how well-built the equipment is. Always position feeders on high, dry ground or on a concrete slab to preserve both the feed quality and the health of the animals.

Securing Feeders From Your Strong, Smart Pigs

Pigs are remarkably intelligent, and they view a loose feeder as a puzzle waiting to be solved. If a feeder is not bolted down, anchored, or placed in a way that prevents rooting underneath, the pigs will inevitably flip it to see what lies beneath. Use heavy-duty fence staples or chains to anchor stationary feeders to wooden posts or structural pen walls.

For portable feeders, consider utilizing weighted bottoms or sand-fillable compartments if the manufacturer provides them. If using a simple trough, placing it in a recessed area or building a protective frame can prevent the animals from getting their noses under the lip.

Never underestimate a hog’s ability to exert force. If they can move it, they will; if they can break it, they will eventually find a way. Investing in a robust anchoring system from day one will save countless hours of repairing troughs and cleaning up spilled grain.

Wet vs. Dry Feed: Which Feeder Style is Best?

The choice between wet and dry feeding is often driven by regional availability and desired growth rates, but the feeder choice must match the method. Dry feed systems—gravity hoppers and standard troughs—are excellent for maximizing convenience and reducing daily labor. They prevent feed from souring, but they can be dusty and prone to higher wastage if the pigs are particularly aggressive.

Wet feeding, which involves mixing feed with water or whey, results in faster weight gain and less dust. However, it requires a trough that can hold liquid without leaking and demands daily cleaning to prevent mold growth in the bottom of the trough.

Choose a trough feeder for wet feed applications and a hopper system for dry rations. Mixing the two styles is rarely successful, as hopper mechanisms will quickly clog if exposed to moisture, and open troughs are inefficient for dry pellets. Align the equipment with the intended feeding strategy to maintain a healthy, productive herd.

Choosing the right equipment for a small herd is a balance of operational efficiency and animal well-being. By selecting a feeder that suits both the temperament of your pigs and the reality of your daily schedule, you create a more sustainable farming environment. With the right setup, you can spend less time managing spills and more time focusing on the growth and health of your livestock.