Norwegian Landrace is the leading breed of swine in Norway. Since swine are not as numerous in Norway as in most countries that have a registered strain, the number registered each year is limited. Norwegian Landrace, as well as most of the swine in Norway, are raised in the southern part of the country, mostly found in the area of Hamar. They are white in colour and have a heavy drooped ear. The Norwegian Landrace has a relatively narrow shoulder, a small head, hooked and elongated back, and a plump ham. A European contrast of the Landrace pigs during the 1970’s demonstrated that the Norwegian Landrace had the maximum growth rate and the most efficient feed conversion. Proof that the Norwegian Landrace has found favour in other countries’ breeding stock is in the demand for exportation. Exports have been made to England, Ireland, Northern Ireland, France, Sweden, Denmark, Canada, Poland, and the Czech Republic.

The breed originated from importations of Landrace from other countries having the breed. There was then special selection to give the blend of introduced strains a unique adaptation to the environment of Southern Norway. The major aid in this selection has been the breed testing done in a special swine station. In the boar testing station 2300 boars are tested annually, with 2700 siblings also tested on station. In addition, boars and gilts are tested on farm. The best performing pigs that are sound provide the main source of brood stock for breed improvement. Artificial insemination plays a great part in spreading the influence of superior boars. It is estimated that 90% of the sows are bred by AI.

The mean weaned piglets of the Norwegian Landrace pig breed for each litter is 9 to 8, two to three times a year. These pigs are capable of attaining a body weight of 220lbs (100kg) within 142 days after their birth. The average weight of the male Norwegian Landrace Pig at slaughter is 350-375lbs (160-170kg). The Norwegian Landrace Pig breed full grown has an average to big-sized body. The Norwegian Landrace Pig average mature weight of the sow is 450-600lbs (204 to 272kg), and the average weight of the boar is 500-700lbs (226-318kg).