In old yeller Since the hogs are allowed to roam free like range cattle how can the settlers tell who the hogs belong to?

In "Old Yeller," settlers can identify their hogs through distinctive markings or brands that they apply to their animals. These markings help differentiate their livestock from others that roam freely. Additionally, the familiarity of the settlers with their own pigs and their behaviors further aids in recognizing ownership. This system allows for some level of order despite the free-range nature of the hogs.