Also known as the Cottage Pig and Orchard pig
The Gloucestershire Old Spot (GOS) is one of few relatively unimproved, hardy British pig breeds
Originally, during the 1920’s and earlier the GOS was heavily spotted with black, even to the extent of being more black than white. The origin of the spotting is uncertain. However, the requirements of the Bacon Pigs Marketing scheme from 1933 to 1939 placed great emphasis on the colour of pig breeds. In the case of the GOS a predominantly white carcass was required meaning that the quantity of spotting had to be greatly reduced until it was only desirable to have one spot on each side. Today the GOS must have at least one decisive black spot. The pig is large with a long level back and deep sides. Females must have at least 14 teats.
Although having a period of popularity early in the 20th century, the GOS later became increasingly rare until in 1974 there were only 13 registered boars remaining. The Rare Breeds Survival Trust has been hugely influential in promoting the breed since then.
The Gloucestershire Old Spot Pig Breeders’ Society and herd-book were established in 1914.
| Origin: | Berkeley Vale, Gloucestershire |
| Class: | Lop-eared, long bodied, early maturing, dual-purpose |
| Colour: | White with at least one distinct black spot |
| Parentage: | Old Gloucester pig and others? |
| Bloodlines: | |
| Male: | Gerald, Patrick, Rufus, Sambo. |
| Female: | Bluebell, Countess, Dahlia, Dolly, Ellen, Josephine, Muriel, Primrose, Princess, Princess Ann, Princess Freda, Princess Joan, Princess Mary, Star, Star Antoinette. |
| Breed Club: | |
Gloucestershire Old Spots Pig Breeders Club | |
