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Why Raise Meat Goats? Ultimate Guide to Trends, Target Markets & How YOU Can Profit (2019 Edition)

Are you considering getting into raising meat goats for profit, but are still on the (goat) fence?

You’re in the right place, because Who Buys Goat Meat? we’ve put together THE definitive list of market trends and OPPORTUNITIES for 2019, so you can make an informed decision.

There's a bunch of interesting facts and data in this article, but we also put everything into an infographic for fun. Take a look:

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Here’s what you’ll learn in this guide:

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    How much demand is there for goat meat (now and in the future)?
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    Where is the demand for goat meat coming from?
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    How can you take advantage of this opportunity?
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    What are other farmers saying?
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    What should you do now?

Let’s get into it!

Table of Contents
Current Demand for Goat Meat (and Future Projections)
Who Buys Goat Meat? Here Are Your 2 Target Markets
How Farmers Can Take Advantage of the Goat Meat Boom: 5 Action Steps
What Other Farmers are Saying About the Goat Meat Market
7 More Reasons to Get into Meat Goats (Besides Selling the Meat)
What You Should Do Now:
References:

Current Demand for Goat Meat (and Future Projections)

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Did you know that of all the red meat consumed globally, 63% is goat meat?

That means the U.S. has a lot of catching up to do!

Because recent studies suggest that only 17% of U.S. consumers currently purchase goat meat. (But don’t worry, demand is about to ramp up a lot - for three reasons I describe later in this article.)

And check out the data that shows there’s been a huge surge in goat meat demand in the States recently:

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    In 2014, 43 million pounds of goat meat were imported into the U.S. for a total value of $94.7 million (that grew from just 3 million pounds in 1990 for a total value of $1.9 million)
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    But look at this: in 2016, Australia alone shipped $138 million worth of goat meat to the U.S.
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    And in 2017, the value of goat meat shipments from Australia jumped 38 percent to $218 million, with the majority of that shipment going to the U.S.

Australian exports of goat meat (largely to the U.S.) have increased more than 400% in a decade!

Despite this, demand for goat meat exceeds supply from the two largest exporters of goat meat to the U.S., Australia and New Zealand.

And that’s just demand in America. Look at these facts about international consumption of goat meat:

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    Goats are the main source of animal protein in many North African and Middle Eastern nations. Goats are also important in Southeast Asia, the Caribbean, and other tropical regions
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    In many countries around the world, goat meat is a dietary staple and a delicacy served in specialty dishes, particularly at celebratory gatherings

In the video below, Steve Byrns from Texas A&M University explains a 6-year study on the meat goat market that found demand for meat goats is increasing while stock is decreasing (which has been pushing up prices):

And in this video, Dr. Frank Craddock (goat specialist with the TAMU Extension Center) discusses the future of the meat goat industry and how demand will be greater than supply for the foreseeable future:

So who exactly is buying all this goat meat – especially in the United States? Let’s take a look…

Who Buys Goat Meat? Here Are Your 2 Target Markets

Latinos are fueling goat meat demand

Latinos are fueling goat meat demand

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According to the National Animal Health Monitoring System (NAHMS), the growing demand for goat meat in the United States is due to:

1. Skyrocketing Ethnic Populations

Specifically, the increase in Hispanic, Middle Eastern, Southeast Asian, and Caribbean populations is driving demand for goat meat in the U.S.

Goat meat is favored by many minorities because it has few, if any, religious restrictions.

As well, goat meat is often served in specialty dishes at ethnic festivals or holiday events. (Click here for a handy calendar of ethnic holidays.)

Alabama A&M University has an excellent fact sheet on the nutritive value of goat meat, and highlights these important points about the Hispanic market for goat meat in the U.S.:

  • Cabrito, a delicacy in Central and South America, is meat from goat kids slaughtered when 1 to 3 months of age and weighing less than 50 pounds
  • Chevon is meat from older goat kids slaughtered when 6 to 9 months of age and weighing from 50 to 75 pounds.
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    These two types of red meat are usually cut in bite-size or larger pieces to be eaten stewed, baked, or grilled. The meat from mature goats is used primarily in processed foods such as sausage or chili.

A survey of “ethnic” consumers in Ontario, Canada showed goat meat consumption varied highly by ethnic group:

Origin

Goat MEAT CONSUMPTION
(Kilos/year/person)

Middle Eastern

10.3

African

9.3

South Asian

8.7

Caribbean

7.7

European

Southeast Asian

5.8

5.4

Source

The same study found that some African immigrants eat goat meat one or two times daily. The study found that those immigrants have these preferences for goat meat:

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    They prefer fresh, not frozen goat meat (but normally purchase frozen meat, due to lack of availability)
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    They prefer grass-fed goat meat
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    They could tell the difference between grain-fed and grass-fed goat meat by the smell, as well as by the “greasier texture of grain-finished” meat
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    They noted that frozen New Zealand and Australian goat meat was leaner and totally grass-fed, which they prefer
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    They said that as long as the price difference between fresh and frozen goat meat was reasonable, they would buy fresh.

Bottom line: these immigrants preferred fresh and grass-fed goat meat.

“The steady increase in Florida and the U.S. of ethnic populations and people from different cultures and religions has drastically increased the demand for goat meat and other goat food products.”

“We are nowhere close to meeting the demand for goats in this country, and that is really saying something. We have a great number of people who are immigrating to the U.S. who are from ethnicities, cultural and religious backgrounds whose primary source of protein is goat meat."

David Nistler, livestock agent for the University of Florida/IFAS Extension Union County office

2. Growing Niche Markets

The three biggest niche markets are consumers who are interested in (a) the health benefits of goat meat, (b) the “eat local” and “eco-friendly” movements, and (c) broadening their culinary experiences.

“In North America, goat meat is able to tap the popularity of meat that’s completely grass-fed and ‘free range,’ and meets many people’s ethical choices.”

Libby Travers, a Sydney-based food writer

Key Points:

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    Ethnic populations: especially Hispanic, Middle Eastern, Southeast Asian, and Caribbean populations.
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    Niche markets: including consumers who are interested in (a) the health benefits of goat meat, (b) the “eat local” and “eco-friendly” movements, and (c) broadening their culinary experiences.

How Farmers Can Take Advantage of the Goat Meat Boom: 5 Action Steps

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Choose the Best Meat Goat Breed for Your Farm

We’re obviously biased toward Boer goats (just look at the name of our website!), but you really need to choose the breed of meat goat that’s best for your operation.

We’ve put together some guides that can get you started:

Raising Goats for Profit (2018): Complete Beginner’s Guide to Meat Goats & Dairy Goats
Raising Boer Goats for Profit (2018): The Ultimate Guide

And also check out our breed guides:

Raising Kiko Goats
Raising Spanish Goats
Raising Fainting Goats

Keep in mind that all goats can be harvested for their meat - but some breeds tend to better at muscle production and have other qualities that make them especially well-suited for meat production. Boer and Spanish goats are probably the most popular meat breeds. 

Focus on One Target Market

As discussed in the previous section, there are two growing target markets for goat meat in the USA:

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    Ethnic markets, including Hispanics, and people of Middle Eastern, Southeast Asian, and Caribbean descent.

    Keep in mind that the largest market, by far, is Hispanics, which makes that a great group of people to focus on.
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    Niche markets, including people who are interested in the health benefits of goat meat; people who are part of the “eat local” and “eco-friendly” movements; and people interested in broadening their culinary experiences.

    It’s hard to dispute that most people these days are looking to get healthier, so focusing on the “health” aspect of goat meat is a great strategy.

Here’s a great answer from one goat farmer when he was asked “In your opinion, what opportunities do you envision for the goat sector associated with the ethnic market?”:

“Producers need to continue to identify premium markets for their product.

Some cultures go to the scrub meat and that kind of garbage and they’re not going to pay you very well. There are some cultures that for certain festivals and times of the year when goat is a delicacy, so it’s understanding the markets and marketing to those that are willing to put a premium on it.”

And here’s an interesting quote from an article on how goat is the “new lamb”:

James Whetlor, founder of London goat meat supplier Cabrito.

“One of the things that makes goat so appealing, I think, is that it does have so many cultural references. It’s just as at home in a tandoori as it is in a deep south American barbecue, or a braised shoulder or roasted leg.”

Choose the Best Way to Sell Your Goat Meat

According to the NAHMS Goat 2009 Study, the most common ways farmers sold their meat goats:

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    64.8% Auction/barn sale
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    19.5%: Direct to consumer
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    17.5%: Direct to another goat producer
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    Direct sales to consumers can be more profitable since there may be no transportation costs, middleman, or sales commission

Get More Customers by Using the Right Messages in Your Marketing

In a study called Validating the demand for goat meat in the US meat market, the authors identified what would motivate current goat meat-eaters to eat more goat meat. The study found that:

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    Consumers who purchase beef and chicken regularly are very likely to purchase more goat meat
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    Three factors would encourage consumers to purchase more goat meat:
  • Lower price
  • Better safety assurances
  • Labelling that states goat meat has lower fat content than other meats

According to the study’s authors, “Consumers favoring less cholesterol comprise the large portion of seasonal purchasers of goat meat.”

The authors conclude that “…the growth potential” of the goat meat market “is not driven just by the size of ethnic groups or the elderly, but also by consumer preferences for healthy and safer attributes of goat meat.”

In a survey of consumers’ preference for goat meat in the United States, people who have never eaten goat meat were asked why they hadn’t, and what would encourage them to try goat meat.

When asked “Why have you never eaten goat meat?”:

  • 43.2% had never heard of eating goat meat
  • 41.7% did not have goat meat available in their grocery or meat shop
  • 10.2% consider goats as pets not intended for consumption
  • 3.6% had been told by others that it is not tasty
  • 3.6% considered goat meat too expensive compared with other meats

A follow-up question asked under what circumstances that person was likely to try goat meat:

  • 34.8% said that they might try goat meat at a grocery store providing samples of cooked goat meat
  • 34.7% as part of a meal served at a friend’s home
  • 31.4% as an appealing menu item served in an ethnic restaurant

Of people who had eaten goat meat before, but didn’t eat it regularly, the reasons for not eating goat meat regularly:

  • 51.7% said goat meat was not available in my grocery or meat shop
  • 25.7% said they don’t know how to cook goat meat

Of goat meat eaters, the occasions they eat goat meat included:

  • 59.4% said “no special occasion” (they just eat it as part of their regular meals)
  • 30.7% said special occasions or other holidays (15.1% said Easter; 14.1% said Christmas; 5.6% said Ramadan)

A research paper called Should You Market Chevon, Cabrito or Goat Meat? summarizes these findings from a study

  • In a blind taste test of goat meat and beef with 600 consumers, 42% of participants preferred the taste of goat meat, while only 38% preferred beef.
  • In the same study, more than 50% of participants associated the term “goat meat” with lower classes, while nearly 50% associated the name “chevon” with high and upper-middle classes.
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    “We as agriculturists can learn much about marketing from the entertainment industry and packaged goods marketers. Names conjure up images, both good and bad. Good images help sell products, and bad images make it difficult to promote and sell products.

…if you want to build a larger market by appealing to the masses that have never tried this delicacy, your chances of success will be increased by calling it chevon, cabrito, or some other exotic sounding name.

Remember, outside of the brotherhood of current goat meat consumers, “goat” is a four-letter word!”

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    When marketing your goat meat, make sure to use the language of your target audience. For example, if you’re marketing to Hispanic customers, use “Cabrito” or “Chevon” instead of “goat meat”.

​Emphasize the Health Benefits of Goat Meat

No matter which target market you choose, keep in mind that one of the biggest benefits of goat meat is also little-known: goat is the healthiest of all red meats.

Here are some facts that you can use to sell more product:

  • Goat meat is lower in calories, total fat, saturated fat, and cholesterol than traditional meats
  • In fact, goat meat is over 50 percent lower in fat than American beef, and is about 40 percent lower in saturated fat than chicken - even chicken cooked with the skin off!
  • Goat meat has higher levels of iron (3.2 mg) when compared to a similar serving size of beef (2.9 mg), pork (2.7 mg), lamb (1.4 mg), and chicken (1.5 mg).
  • Goat meat also contains higher potassium content with lower sodium levels

Here's a table put together by Alabama A&M University comparing the nutrients of the major meat groups:

Nutrient

goat

chicken

beef

pork

lamb

Calories

122

162

179

180

175

Fat (g)

2.6

6.3

7.9

8.2

8.1

Saturated Fat (g)

0.76

1.7

3.0

2.9

2.9

Protein (g)

23

25

25

25

24

Cholesterol (mg)

63.8

76

73.1

73.1

78.2

Maybe the biggest health-related selling point for goat meat is weight loss. Here’s why it’s a great sell for weight loss:

  • Goat meat has less calories compared to other red meats like beef or mutton
  • Goat meat contains lower fat compared to other meats
  • Goat meat has lower cholesterol than other meats
  • Goat meat has a comparable amount of protein as other meat sources.

“Goat meat has been established as a lean meat with favorable nutritional qualities, and it’s an ideal choice for the health-conscious consumer.”

Source: Nutritive Value of Goat Meat

Action Steps from this Section:

  • Choose the best meat goat breed for your farm. Boers are one of the best breeds for meat, but you need to figure out what’s best for your farm.
  • Focus on one target market. Choose a market with growing demand (like Hispanics or people looking for a healthy meat alternative), and really get to know that market.
  • Choose the best way to sell your goat meat. Most meat goat producers sell in auction/barn sales, but you might get a price premium by selling direct to consumers.
  • Get more customers by using the right messages in your marketing. Have you ever seen an ad and thought “Wow, it’s like they know what I’m thinking!” That’s what happens when you focus on one target market and get to know that market deeply.
  • Emphasize the health benefits of goat meat. No matter which target market you choose, everyone wants to live healthier.

What Other Farmers are Saying About the Goat Meat Market

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At this point you might be thinking “Enough with the stats – what are real live farmers saying?”

We get emails every day from farmers who are looking to get into Boers, or farmers who’ve been into Boers for a while and want to let us know how they’re doing.

First off, check out this excellent video by Bear of Arms Family Homestead on things you need to know before getting goats:

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And to give you a feel for the success some farmers are having, take a look at these stories:

Susie & Larry Reeves, The Florida Goat Ranch

“When Susie Reeves saw the growing population of people of various cultural backgrounds, ethnicities and religions immigrating to Florida and the U.S., she had a hunch the demand for goat meat would rise.

So 11 years ago, she convinced her husband Larry Reeves they should begin raising goats on their farm in Hawthorne because goat meat is the most consumed meat in the world.

They did some research and took a weeklong class on goats at Florida A&M University in Tallahassee, then started Florida Goat Ranch.

Susie Reeves’ hunch was right. The demand for goat meat has risen.

“The price of goat meat has doubled since we got into the business 11 years ago,” Larry Reeves said. “The boss lady said we should have goats, and we got goats.”

As the demand for goat meat continues to grow, the Reeves are delighted they shifted their interest from cattle to goats.

“I always said I could manhandle a goat better than I could a cow,” Susie Reeves said.

Read more: Florida’s Goat Industry Goes Gangbusters

Meat & Livestock Australia’s Julie Petty

“Sustained growth in demand for goat meat around the globe has sent prices to a record high.”


"The exciting news from an industry perspective is the prices at the moment are not just being driven by a tightening of supply, they're also being driven by growing demand internationally and domestically.”

Owen Smith, Whitestone Boers, Milton, New Zealand

“There is huge demand world-wide for goat meat, as well as for stud animals as breeders try to improve their flocks.

In the last 12 months I have had inquiries from Australia, Taiwan, Canada and Korea. We are continuing to get more now than we ever did."

Read more: Huge overseas demand for Boer goats, meat

Alicia Halbritter, livestock and forage agent for the Duval County Extension office

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Raising goats require less maintenance than other cattle. Goats have a shorter gestation period, 150 days, compared to 280 days for cattle. One goat can produce two to three kids a year, while a cow can only produce one calf a year.


“I have seen some people actually rent herds of goats in order to clear out underbrush and weeds due to goats being browsers and liking a varied diet.”

Myrna Gisler, Gisler Boer Goats, Alberta, Canada

Myrna “There are so many people coming into Canada who want quality goat meat, but 90 per cent of the goat meat that’s consumed in Canada is imported from Australia,” said Gisler.

In Canada, growing Filipino, Muslim, and Jamaican communities are “always looking for product”.

“We don’t have the numbers to export. There’s so much demand that there’s no way we can possibly meet it,” said Gisler, adding that goat meat and milk are also becoming popular with “the health conscious.”

“The market is there, and there’s definitely room to grow.”

“I can’t see any other industry that has grown like that in the last 20 years. Growth has been steady all along.”

Read more: Strong meat demand spells bright future for goat industry

And here are some videos showing you the experience of more farmers:

Glen Martin sold 250 goats in one year working part-time (note that this video is from 2013, so it’s a bit dated):

This video is an interview with the Carpenter family in Mount Crawford, Virginia. They talk about raising, selling and showing their Boer goats:

7 More Reasons to Get into Meat Goats (Besides Selling the Meat)

If the skyrocketing demand for goat meat and profit potential don’t appeal to you too much, there are a bunch more reasons to consider raising meat goats:

Clear your land & shrubs

Not only can you use goats to clear your own land, some farmers even rent out their goats to clear other farmers’ land!

Free manure

Did you know that goat manure doesn’t smell, and it doesn’t attract insects like cow or horse manure does?

Milk

Goat milk has a bunch of attractive qualities: it’s easier to digest than cow’s milk, isn’t as allergenic, and is good for the skin! That probably explains why the goat milk market has been growing in the US.

Cheese

Like goat milk, cheese from goats is rich in vitamins, has less saturated fats and cholesterol, and has fewer calories.

Clothing

Ever hear of cashmere or mohair? Those fibers come from goats!

Pets

If you’ve spent any time around goats, you know they can be both charming and hilarious! They’re usually pretty good-natured, too, so they’re great for children.

Entertainment & therapy

Being around animals can be a real stress-reliever, including being around goats.

And if you haven’t watched baby goats horsing around (so to speak), you haven’t seen real entertainment!

What You Should Do Now:

And get raising those meat goats!

References:

Is There a Market for Goat Meat in the US? Yes, There Is!
U.S. Goat Meat Operations  
Consumers’ Preference for Goat Meat in the United States
Validating the demand for goat meat in the US meat market
Understanding the Ethnic Market Opportunities for Veal, Goat, Lamb and Rabbit
The U.S. Can’t Get Enough of Australia’s Goats
Goat from Farm to Table
No kidding: goat is the (ethical) new lamb
Should You Market Chevon, Cabrito or Goat Meat?
How You Can Lose Weight with Goat Meat
Nutritive Value of Goat Meat
Eat goat! It is a healthy choice!
No kidding: Growing interest in goats at Agribition
Is India’s obsession with the cow getting your goat?
Strong meat demand spells bright future for goat industry
Huge overseas demand for Boer goats, meat
Growing appetite for goat meat sends prices to record heights
Florida’s Goat Industry Goes Gangbusters
20 Reasons Why Keeping Goats Will Change Your Life for The Better

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Raising Kiko Goats: Ultimate Guide for Beginners

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“Kiko” means “meat” in Maori (a native language in New Zealand), and the Kiko goats are exceptional meat goats.

They produce vigorous, fast-growing kids that reliably raise to weaning due to excellent maternal instincts, and require little producer input, supplemental feed, or medical care.

These goats have quickly become a star of American meat goat production, due to their many fine qualities.

Quick Navigation
Kiko Goat Origin
Kiko Goat Uses
Kiko Goat Characteristics
Kiko Goat Price
Kiko Goat Breeders
Breeding Kiko Goats

Kiko Goat Origin

Kiko goats were developed in New Zealand in the late 1970s. New Zealand ranchers set out to create a  breed of goat that could mature quickly, produce large carcasses, and require little care.

They bred thousands of feral goats with imported dairy goats, and reserved the fastest-growing, most disease- and parasite-resistant, meatiest goats, generation after generation. They provided the goats with no supplemental feed, shelter, hoof trimming, or veterinary care, and no assistance with kidding, and allowed only a select few to breed every new generation.

By 1986, the toughest survivors emerged as the recognized Kiko goat breed, originally imported to the United States in the 1990s. Kikos have excellent maternal instincts, fewer medical problems, high carcass yields, and require little producer input.

Kikos have no defined breed standards and no official goat shows, due to the high preference for breeding them for commercial performance and production. For this reason, the American Kiko Goat Association has a DNA testing program to verify Kiko parentage, rather than relying on visible

Kiko Goat Uses

As the name implies, Kiko goats are meat goats. They actually produce more pounds of kid per doe at weaning than the famous Boer goats, although they are still somewhat less in demand.

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While Kikos are primarily meat goats, many people find that the can easily be milked and produce delicious milk. And they are excellent foragers, often used to clean underbrush in fire-prone wilderness areas.

Long-term use of Kikos in pastures improves the quality of grazing for sheep and cattle, by removing invasive plants and weeds, leaving more space, water, and soil nutrients for grass.

Kiko Goat Characteristics

Kikos tend to do best in the southeastern United States, where the climate is closer their native New Zealand.

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While Kikos are bred for commercial performance and their ability to put on substantial weight in natural conditions, rather than specifics of appearance or behavior, there are several common attributes of the breed:

Appearance

Kikos are generally white, although colored Kiko goats can be registered, and usually they grow a long, flowing coat in cold climates. Bucks have substantial, sweeping horns with a gentle twist.

Size

Kiko bucks weigh 250-300 pounds, while does weigh 100-150 pounds. They have a medium frame and compact, muscular bodies.

Production

While Kiko kids are born an average size, they gain weight and size very quickly with little or no supplemental food. Under natural conditions, kids gain an average of 300+ grams per day, reaching market weight earlier than other breeds.

Disposition

Kikos have been bred to thrive with little human intervention. While many people do keep them as pets and socialize them, they have not been cultivated for sociability or ease of handling.

As a Dairy Goat​

Kiko does can be milked and will produce a good quantity of milk. As meat goats, they only produce milk for a 5 month lactation period per kidding, and it is typically lower in butterfat than the milk of dairy goats, but many people have found them to be surprisingly easy milk producers among meat goats.

Kiko Goat Price

Goat Meat Farming: Pros and ConsGoat Meat Farming: Pros and Cons

Kikos are still somewhat overshadowed by Boers in the meat goat marketplace, but this breed is rapidly increasing in popularity due to its ease of management and durability.

Prices range from $300 for a commercial doe to up to $1,500 for a registered, pedigreed buck. Many owners also invest in DNA testing of their Kikos, which costs $50 per test.

Kiko Goat Breeders

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Kiko goat breeders can be found through associations like the International Kiko Goat Association, and the American Kiko Goat Association. 

Breeders can also be found through the National Kiko Registry, or through a simple google search.

Kiko goat breeders can be found through associations like the International Kiko Goat Association, and the American Kiko Goat Association. Breeders can also be found through the National Kiko Registry, or through a simple google search.

If you are investing in an expensive, pedigreed New Zealand Kiko goat, it is important to verify registration. A goat registered with the National Kiko Registry will be given an NKR registration number, in addition to a registration from the US Meat Goat Association, which focuses on Boer goats. When a goat is DNA tested, it will also be issued a VGL file number.

Note on DNA testing: DNA testing does not prove or verify the breed of goat. A VGL number does not demonstrate that a goat is 100% Kiko of New Zealand origin, for example. DNA testing only proves parentage.

If both the sire and dam have VGL numbers, it is possible to prove the parentage of a Kiko goat, which can be important when bucks are allowed to run with the herd. While many Kikos are DNA tested, it's important to understand the purpose of DNA testing before investing in it.

Raising Kiko Goats

The biggest challenge in raising Kiko goats is that they have been bred to be resourceful, independent foragers.

Their ability to stand on their hind legs up to 6 feet in height, withstand difficult climate and terrain, and not rely on feedings for survival, can make them difficult to contain on a farm, and can sometimes make them difficult to handle.

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Kiko goat social needs.

Like all goats, Kikos are herd animals and will not be healthy or happy when kept alone. If you only want or need one doe for personal milk consumption or as a pet, housing her with a wether, or even a farm dog, will help keep her happy and well-adjusted. 

Kiko goat medical needs.

Like all goats, Kikos may need periodic hoof trimming and deworming, although much less frequently than other breeds. If they are not handled often, hoof trimming these strong, independent goats can be quite a wrestling match. Find a local veterinarian who is familiar with goats, and learn to spot the early signs of parasites.

Kiko goat food needs.

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Water. Goats should always have access to fresh, clean water. Kikos can drink up to 10 liters of water a day when producing milk.

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Forage and feed. Kikos will happily browse on shrubs, weeds, herbs, and tree bark and leaves. Allowing them freedom of pasture also gives them the exercise they need to stay healthy and prevent health problems. Depending on the size of your pasture, the variety of plants available, and the season, alfalfa hay can and should be offered for free feeding. Purchase very high-quality hay for the healthiest goats and best quality milk.

​Alfalfa hay is high in calcium, which is essential when goats are kidding and producing milk. Alfalfa hay can be expensive, so some people supplement other high-quality hay with alfalfa pellets instead. Grain can be a good supplemental food when kidding or nursing, and hand-feeding grain often used to help domesticate these independent animals.

Supplements. Depending on the plants in your pasture, local soil composition, and nutritional composition of your hay, it is likely that your goats will need mineral supplements. If you are providing high-quality food, they may only require small amounts of trace minerals.

When free-fed, goats will only eat as much mineral supplements as they need. Use a mineral supplement designed for goats or cattle, and avoid supplements designed for sheep, because goats and cows require copper, which is toxic to sheep. You can also feed your Kiko goats fruit and vegetable scraps from the kitchen to add variety to their diet.

Kiko goat enclosure needs. Like all goats, Kikos are agile and ready jumpers. Kikos are also particularly strong and vigorous, which creates special challenges when fencing them, and they should be given ample space to roam and exercise to prevent unnecessary wear and tear on your fencing. Remember that fences not only keep goats in, but should keep predators out.

Fences should be a minimum of 4 feet high, although some breeds and crossbreeds can jump well over heights of 4 feet, and 5 feet is safest. Goats will lean, stand, rub, and chew on fencing, particularly if they have smaller pasture, or if there seems to be attractive forage on the other side, so posts should be no further than 8 feet apart, and posts should be cemented into the ground to keep strong Kikos from pushing them over.

The best way to secure your Kikos is a goat wire fence with 4-inch openings too small for adults to put their heads through; goat wire is strong enough to withstand the chewing, leaning, and standing that the fence will endure.

Because goat wire fencing comes at 4 feet high, it is best to run one strand of electric fencing over the top of the wire fence to increase the overall height and deter jumping. Kikos will stand against the top of a fence if there is an attractive branch leaning near the edge, so the electrified strand will prevent this habit.

Kiko goat enclosure needs.

Like all goats, Kikos are agile and ready jumpers. Kikos are also particularly strong and vigorous, which creates special challenges when fencing them, and they should be given ample space to roam and exercise to prevent unnecessary wear and tear on your fencing.

 Remember that fences not only keep goats in, but should keep predators out. Fences should be a minimum of 4 feet high, although some breeds and crossbreeds can jump well over heights of 4 feet, and 5 feet is safest.

Goats will lean, stand, rub, and chew on fencing, particularly if they have smaller pasture, or if there seems to be attractive forage on the other side, so posts should be no further than 8 feet apart, and posts should be cemented into the ground to keep strong Kikos from pushing them over.

The best way to secure your Kikos is a goat wire fence with 4-inch openings too small for adults to put their heads through; goat wire is strong enough to withstand the chewing, leaning, and standing that the fence will endure.
 
Because goat wire fencing comes at 4 feet high, it is best to run one strand of electric fencing over the top of the wire fence to increase the overall height and deter jumping. Kikos will stand against the top of a fence if there is an attractive branch leaning near the edge, so the electrified strand will prevent this habit.

Kiko goat shelter needs.

All goats need shelter at night and in poor weather. Situate your shelter well away from your fence, so that goats aren't able to jump from the roof of their shelter over the fence, and avoid situating the shelter on low ground that would accumulate rain. 

At minimum, the shelter can simply be a roof and three sides, so that goats can get out of bad weather.

It is better to have a dry dirt floor than a wood one; wood flooring can get slippery with mud or manure, and potentially injure a goat or cause foot problems.

Does will need additional shelter and protection when they have kidded, and to be separate from the herd so if you plan to breed your Kikos, you will need to create separate, warm, clean pens for does and kids.

Breeding Kiko Goats

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There is a significant difference between the breeder of the American Kiko and the New Zealand breeders who originated Kiko goats.

American breeders tend to focus on market value of the goat at sale, and for that reason are very attentive to purebred status.

The Genemaster program has a methodical system for crossbreeding Boers with Kikos to improve the durability and disease resistance of Boers, and Americans are very focused on bloodlines.

The unusual attention to pedigree in Kikos and lack of determinate coat characteristics leads to widespread DNA testing, driving up the cost of purchasing Kiko goats. Due to the limitations of domestic goat meat marketing, there are actually very few Kikos in the United States being bred for their originally intended commercial purposes, and performing at full capacity.

If you are managing your Kiko goats for profit, it may yet be more profitable to cultivate the breed for purity and concentrate on selling your Kiko goats for parentage, rather than on cultivating your Kikos for production and selling them for meat.

Kiko does are polyestrous and will breed in all times of the year. After successful breeding, their gestation period is 155 days, and they often give birth to twins or triplets.

While a doe can come into heat as early as 4 months old, it is better to wait until she is at least 8 months old or 80 pounds to prevent kidding problems. When she is coming into heat, she will generally show signs with signature behaviors, such as:

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    Tail flagging
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    Signs of mucous or discharge
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    Swollen rear end
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    More pronounced or unusual yelling or bleating
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    If she is exposed to a buck, she will usually show greater interest in him

The year-round breeding cycle of Kiko goats is a desirable trait when raising them for meat, to ensure that you have a steady supply of kids for market. Because Kikos are so independent and good at mothering, people often allow bucks to mingle with the herd freely, allowing them to breed with less oversight, scheduling, and regulation than with dairy goats. Kiko bucks will need to be kept from new mothers and small kids.

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Raising Toggenburg Goats: Ultimate Guide for Beginners

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This is one of the most widely distributed goat in the world, with each country having at least one herd somewhere. These goats are popular and are used extensively.

Why is that? What do you need to do to look after your own Toggenburg goat? How do raise and breed them? What kind of shelter do they need?

All these are important questions which will be answered in this comprehensive guide. By the time you have finished reading this information, you should be able to effectively look after your own Toggenburg goat. What more do you need?

Quick Navigation
Toggenburg Goat Uses
Toggenburg Goat Origins
Toggenburg Goat Characteristics
Toggenburg Goat Prices
Raising Toggenburg Goats
Toggenburg Goat Breeders
Breeding Toggenburg Goats
Toggenburg Goat Shelters
Wrapping Up

Toggenburg Goat Uses

When you decide to farm goats, you need to decide what you want to do. Do you want to raise them for their meat, or dairy, or do you want to breed them?

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Maybe you want to enter them into shows and see what can be won. There are particular breeds for each use. Before you buy a goat, you need to make sure that they are suited for your purpose.

Toggenburg goats are used for their milk since they are productive dairy goats. If you want to switch over to goat milk and use your own goats, then this might be the breed for you.

A typical Toggenburg goat can yield up to 740 kg. of milk per lactation. Their milk has a minimum fact content of 3.56% and a minimum protein content of 2.9%.

Their milk is flavorful and delicious, a favorite around the world. Their milk can be used to make all sorts of dairy products such as milk, butter, ice cream and others.

Thanks to their high productivity, this is one of the most sought after breeds available around the whole world.

Toggenburg Goat Origins

Toggenburg goats are known for being one of the oldest dairy breeds in the world. This is a traditional breed that hails from the Toggenburg and Werdenburg regions of the canton of St.

Gallen in eastern Switzerland. The early herds were cross bred to attain the desired traits and there are several sub-breeds that also do very well. British Toggenburg goats are known to produce milk with a higher quality.

The first registered Toggenburg herd book was started in the 1600’s. They were first imported to America in the early 1890’s but they have been a popular breed in the country ever since.

They were the first purebred goats to arrive in the country and have the reputation of being the best. When they were introduced to Britain, the goats underwent a development program which explains why their milk is better.

Although the breed has been around since the 1600’s, they were only internationally recognized in the 1890’s. Ever since then, their numbers have declined in their home region while their numbers all over the rest of the world skyrocketed.

Toggenburg goats have a rich history that explains why they are one of the most famous and most recognizable dairy brands in the world. When you buy a Toggenburg goat, you know that it has come a long way since the first Toggenburg goat all those years ago.

Toggenburg Goat Characteristics

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This a medium-size breed. Mature males reach an average height of 34-38 inches, while females will grow to a height of about 30-32inches.

They are smaller than other Alpine breeds, but they do weigh about the same with an average of about 120 lbs./55 kg., mature males can weigh up to 200 lbs.

They have soft short/medium hair that lies flat for the most part. Tassels are not an uncommon feature. Their fur is solid varying from light fawn to dark chocolate. There is no preference for any shade.

 Toggenburg goats do have distinct facial markings, such as white ears with a dark spot in the middle, two white stripes down the gave from the muzzle to the eyes.

The hind legs are white from hocks to hooves while the forelegs are white from the knees downward. A dark band below the knee is acceptable. Bucks are also known for having a pronounced beard.

It is OK if the markings are cream instead of white, but that is not the best indication. Their ears are always erect and alert while their facial features may be dished or straight, but never Roman.

It is good to remember that this breed performs better in cooler weather. These goats tend to be a little more high-strung than other goats.

Toggenburg Goat Prices

Goat Meat Farming: Pros and ConsGoat Meat Farming: Pros and Cons

Buying a goat can be quite expensive, especially if you want to buy a pedigree goat. True, it is worth it when you consider all the benefits that you get from a goat with good breeding.

When you buy a Toggenburg goat, you can be sure that you will be receiving quality goat milk for a long time. That is why it is worth shopping around before you settle on one breeder.

Kids are generally cheaper than mature goats. Bucks are also more expensive. Usually pedigree kids cost up to $300 although this might differ from region to region.

Before you buy your goat, you need to work out a price plan for the other things that you will need. It would be helpful to consult your local vet about the cost of vaccinations and deworming medication.

Goats usually eat hay and need a few grains or alfalfa pellets for variety. If you are planning on building a fence, you will need to include the cost of building materials to your budget.

Your goat will need a simple housing structure to shelter them from the elements. It does not need to be anything elaborate, but it does need to protect them from the outside.

There are a few costs that come along with buying a good goat, but it will be worth it.

Raising Toggenburg Goats

Toggenburg goats are very friendly. This means that they make wonderful pets for the family. They have gentle temperaments that endear them to the family in no time.

It is important not to treat them too much like a pet since this might harm their development. They are farm animals and it would be wise to keep a balance between the two worlds.

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Most goats do not need a lot of attention; all they really need is a big space to run around in and plenty of food. Goats are social animals, so you will need to have more than one goat otherwise your goat will become frustrated and naughty.

They do tend to be quite stubborn, so you must be willing to fight them on a few issues. If they want to eat your flowers, they will try their best to get to the flowers. You need to build a sturdy fence and maintain it.

If you are new to raising Toggenburg goats, or any goats, it would be in your best interests to befriend a fellow goat herder. There is a wisdom that comes from experience that would be extremely useful to you.

If you plan on eventually selling the milk, you need to have a vet on speed dial. All dairy goats need a clean bill of health before you can sell the milk.

Toggenburg Goat Breeders

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Now that you have decided to buy Toggenburg goats, there are a few things that you need to know before you go out and buy one. There are different breeders out there, and not all of them are honest.

Keep in mind that you are allowed to ask a lot of questions. A proper breeder will be able to answer all of them and won’t mind helping you out with what you want to know.

Some breeders will take the goat to the vet to be tested for various diseases. If a breeder does not do this, it is alright if you ask them to do it before you make the purchase.

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    When buying a goat, always check the eyes. If they seem dull, they might be sick. Goats have bright eyes and are usually friendly, lively animals. A goat that seems shy or withdrawn might not be the healthiest animal.
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    Check the manure as well, a healthy goat passes firm pellets; anything else is not a good sign.
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    Toggenburg goats have defining markings; make sure that the goat you are buying has all the characteristics of a typical thoroughbred Toggenburg goat. Never forget to check for lumps.
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    Abscesses are a sign of something worse and they are contagious. You must be careful or else your new goat might infect the rest of the herd.

Breeding Toggenburg Goats

Most beginners prefer not to buy a male goat to breed with since breeding can be tricky, and bucks are expensive. Some herders take their does to be bred with a local buck and leave it at that.

Does need to be pregnant to start producing milk. Does need to be given at least six months before you breed them, although it is recommended that you wait until they have achieved a healthy weight. Consult your vet to learn what is the ideal weight for your doe.

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Your doe will start showing signs of being in heat, and this is your window. These windows do not last very long, so you have to pay attention for the signs.

Usually, the doe will become a little more temperamental. There will be some sort of discharge and your doe will have a swollen rear end. If she wags her tail a lot, then you can be sure that she is in heat or is about to start.

If she shows interest in bucks or urinates in front of bucks, then you know your doe is in heat.

Toggenburg Goat Shelters

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All goats are hardy creatures, but they do need a good shelter to protect them from the elements. Toggenburg goats do better in colder climates but they need somewhere warm to spend the night.

A simple structure should be able to do the trick, and you should make sure that the door or opening is facing away from the prevailing winds.

Goats need to be kept dry, so make sure that there are no leaks in the structure. Be on guard for leaks and always make sure that your goats have somewhere dry to sleep.

The structure needs to be ventilated without being drafty, since a well-ventilated space prevents many different diseases. Goats are hygienic creatures, so their pen will need to be cleaned daily.

Your Toggenburg goat will thrive in a clean environment. If you plan on selling your goat milk, then the shelter will need to meet specific requirements.

Goats are easy to milk, but they do not like loud noises or distractions when you are milking them. It is better to keep the goats away from other animals when you milk them.

Loud noises are also detrimental to the milking process. That is why it would be better to build the shelter away from roads or any factories. When you build the shelter, be sure to give your goats some form of bedding and change it regularly.

Bedding is especially important if your doe is about to give birth because she needs to be as comfortable as possible when she gives birth.

Wrapping Up

Toggenburg goats are among the best dairy goats in the world. They are also one of the oldest dairy breeds, even though they were only recognized internationally long after the breed had been established.

These goats are friendly but stubborn, so you will need to keep this in mind before you buy one. Breeding your Toggenburg can be tricky, but once you know what to look for.

Once your doe has given birth, it will only be a matter of time before she is producing high-quality milk for you and your family to enjoy.

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Raising Lamancha Goats: Ultimate Guide for Beginners

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The American Lamancha goat, also known as just Lamancha or LaMancha, is a distinctive dairy goat developed on the west coast of the United States in the 1920s.

These goats have quickly risen to prominence, not just in America, but have been shown internationally as well. The Lamancha goat is an excellent dairy goat with a colorful history.

Quick Navigation
What are Lamancha goats used for?
Lamancha goat origins
Lamancha goat characteristics
Lamancha Goat Prices
Lamancha Goat Breeders
Breeding Lamancha Goats
Conclusion

What are Lamancha goats used for?

Lamancha goats are dairy goats, best recognized for their high milk production, and the high percentage of butterfat content in their milk.

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They are also prized for being docile and sociable, and survive harsh conditions with little impact on their milk production.

Due to their distinctive ears, Lamanchas are also popular show and breeding animals, and their lovable temperament makes them good pets and companion animals. Their intelligence also makes them suitable cart or pack goats.

Lamancha goat origins

American Lamancha goats have an interesting breed history. While reference to short-eared goats can be found in literature dating back to ancient Persia, and earless goats from La Mancha Spain had shown in the Paris World's Fair in 1904, no distinct breed of short-eared goats had been developed before Mrs. Eula Fay Frey took an interest in the breed in 1937.

Spanish missionaries who colonized California and Mexico had brought with them short-eared goats, which they used for both meat and milk. These are thought to be related to the Murciana goats from the Mediterranean coast of Spain.

In 1936, a strain of Murcianas could be found in Mexico, mixed with goats from Granada. At the same time, in the early 1900s, a tribe of these original Spanish imports was being kept by Phoebe Wilhelm in northeastern California, where she bred them with Toggenburgs.

In the late 1930s, after Phoebe Wilhelm died, Edith Goodridge purchased 125 goats from her estate, and she noted that about half of these goats had the distinctive short ears. In 1937, Eula Fay Frey and her husband bought Poplar Dairy in Bell, California, after thorough study of the health benefits of goat's milk. The dairy had 130 goats at the time, of which two, a doe and her son, had short ears.

In 1938, that short-eared buck had sired a daughter, named Peggy, who was a beautiful doe with large eyes and short ears. Although she was small, Peggy produced 10-12 pounds of milk a day, and was a darling of the Freys. In 1940, Eula Fay purchased a short-eared doe from the Goodridge herd, another small, attractive doe with large milk production.

Frey continued breeding her goats, seeking a breed that would produce 3.5-6 quarts of milk with 3.5% or more butterfat, with 1-4 year intervals between freshenings.

In 1958, the American Lamancha was formally recognized as a breed, and is today the only breed of goat originating in the United States. By 1960, Mrs. Frey had established the 130 original goats of the American Lamancha foundation herd.

Lamancha goat characteristics

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Appearance

The Lamancha coat can be any color, with short, glossy hair, and a straight face. The distinctive characteristic of the breed are the ears. Lamancha ears can be either:
  • “Gopher ear”: approximate length one inch, with little or no cartilage. The end of the ear can be turned up or down, and this is the only ear that is accepted for registering a buck.
  • “Elf ear”: acceptable in does, the elf ear has a maximum length of two inches, and cartilage shaping is allowed. The end of the ear must be turned up or down.

Size

Bucks stand 30 inches or more, and can weigh over 160 pounds. Does are typically 28 inches or less, and weigh around 130 pounds.

Production

A doe can produce for up to 2 years before needing to be rebred. Lamanchas produce an average of 2,100 pounds of milk per lactation, with an average of 4% butterfat and 3.2% protein in their milk.

Disposition

Lamanchas are known for their curiosity and affectionate nature. They are quieter than many other goats, and easy to look after. They are extremely hardy in a range of climates.

Lamancha Goat Prices

Goat Meat Farming: Pros and ConsGoat Meat Farming: Pros and Cons

As with all goats, prices will vary depending on whether you are purchasing registered pure breeds or crossbreeds, the quality of parentage, and local availability. The quality of the buck determines the quality of your herd, so expect to pay $400-$600 for a good Lamancha buck.

However, since Lamanchas can produce for such extended periods between freshenings, you may prefer to purchase semen every couple of years rather than maintain a buck. High-quality Lamancha semen costs $150-$250 for 5.

Purebred Lamancha does typically cost between $350-$700.

Mini Lamanchas (Lamancha/Nigerian Dwarf crossbreeds) are a popular variation on the breed, and can sometimes be available at a lower price. 

Lamancha Goat Breeders

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There are a number of ways to connect with reputable Lamancha goat breeders.

Check with the American Goat Society or American Dairy Goat Association. Most states also have a local Dairy Goat Association that can connect you with breeders.

The American LaMancha Breeders Association has an active Facebook group, and dairy goat groups and coops are a great source of information on breeders. Always buy your goats from a reputable breeder, and visit the site and inspect the goats before purchase if at all possible.

Raising Lamancha Goats

Lamancha goats are a hardy breed, able to produce milk in a variety of climates and forage conditions.

They are indispensable on a dairy goat farm, but also easily trained and make excellent pets and companion animals. When raising Lamancha goats, here are a few things to keep in mind:

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Lamancha goat social needs.

Like all goats, Lamanchas are herd animals and will not be healthy or happy when kept alone. If you only want or need one doe for personal milk consumption, living with a wether, or even a farm dog, will help keep her happy and well-adjusted.

Lamancha goat medical needs.

Like all goats, Lamanchas need periodic hoof trimming and deworming. Find a local veterinarian who is familiar with goats, and learn to spot the early signs of parasites.

The unique ears of a Lamancha require special attention because they offer little protection from rain or wind-blown debris; check them often for signs of ear infections or ear problems.

Lamancha Goat Food Needs. 

Water. Goats should always have access to fresh, clean water. Lamanchas can drink up to 10 liters of water a day when producing milk.

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Forage and feed. ​Lamanchas will happily browse on shrubs, weeds, herbs, and tree leaves. Allowing them freedom of pasture also gives them the exercise they need to stay healthy and prevent health problems. 

Depending on the size of your pasture, the variety of plants available, and the season, alfalfa hay can and should be offered for free feeding. Purchase very high-quality hay for the healthiest goats and best quality milk.

Alfalfa hay is high in calcium, which is essential when goats are kidding and producing milk. Alfalfa hay can be expensive, so some people supplement other high-quality hay with alfalfa pellets instead.

Supplements. Depending on the plants in your pasture, local soil composition, and nutritional composition of your hay, it is likely that your goats will need mineral supplements.

If you are providing high-quality food, they may only require small amounts of trace minerals. When free-fed, goats will only eat as much mineral supplements as they need.

Use a mineral supplement designed for goats or cattle, and avoid supplements designed for sheep, because goats and cows require copper, which is toxic to sheep. You can also feed your Lamancha goats fruit and vegetable scraps from the kitchen, which they will enjoy.

Lamancha goat enclosure needs.

Like all goats, Lamanchas are agile and ready jumpers. Lamanchas are also particularly intelligent and curious, which creates special challenges when fencing them.

Fences should not only keep goats in, but should keep predators out. Fences should be a minimum of 4 feet high, although some breeds and crossbreeds can jump over heights of 4 feet, and 5 feet is safest.

Goats will lean, stand, rub, and chew on fencing, particularly if they have smaller pasture, or if there seems to be attractive forage on the other side, so posts should be no further than 8 feet apart, and posts should be cemented into the ground.

The best way to secure your Lamanchas is a goat wire fence with 4-inch openings too small for adults to put their heads through; goat wire is strong enough to withstand the chewing, leaning, and standing that the fence will endure.

Because goat wire fencing comes at 4 feet high, it is best to run one strand of electric fencing over the top of the wire fence to increase the overall height and deter jumping.

Lamancha goat shelter needs.

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All goats need shelter at night and in poor weather. Situate your shelter well away from your fence, so that goats can’t jump from the roof of their shelter over the fence, and avoid situating the shelter on low ground that would accumulate rain.

At minimum, the shelter can simply be a roof and three sides, so that goats can get out of bad weather. It is better to have a dry dirt floor than a wood one; wood flooring can get slippery with mud or manure, and potentially injure a goat or cause foot problems.

Breeding Lamancha Goats

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Lamancha does come into season in the fall or winter when they are in heat for 1-2 days every 18-21 days until they are bred.

After successful breeding, their gestation period is 155 days, and they often give birth to twins or triplets.

While a doe can come into heat as early as 5 months old, it is better to wait until she is at least 8 months old or 80 pounds to prevent kidding problems. When she is coming into heat, she will generally show signs with signature behaviors, such as:

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    Tail flagging
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    Signs of mucous or discharge
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    Swollen rear end
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    More pronounced or unusual yelling or bleating
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    And, obviously, if she is exposed to a buck, she will show greater interest in him

When breeding Lamancha goats, there are a few factors to consider.

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    You want the doe to breed, so that she will kid and produce milk
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    You want to know for sure whether or not she has been bred, so that you can be attentive to her special nutritional needs during pregnancy
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    You don't want her to mate more than once, because this can sometimes make the milk taste bad
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    It is preferable to have your Lamanchas kidding at the same time, so that, in the case of multiple births or other challenges, you have enough nursing does to provide excess milk and perhaps to foster kids

For these reasons, breeders adopt a variety of different methods to breed their does.

Keeping a buck can be a challenge, as he requires a separate (and sturdy) enclosure to keep him from breeding when unwanted. For Lamanchas, it can be expensive to keep a high-quality buck year round if he is only needed for a few days every two years. However, keeping your own buck ensures that you can breed your does right when they are ready, and allowing him access to the does may bring them into heat.

Some breeders prefer to schedule “dates,” which is when a desirable buck comes to visit their herd. This is less expensive than keeping your own buck, but needs to be carefully timed due to the limited window of time in which does are in heat.

Some breeders choose artificial insemination, so that they can have full control over the timing of breeding. This requires some skill to do, and limits the number of times you can attempt to breed a doe without incurring more expense, but also allows your kids to have the best possible bloodlines at a reasonable cost.

Conclusion

Lamanchas are charming goats and great milkers, and make a strong addition to any goat dairy operation.

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Raising Nigerian Dwarf Goats: Ultimate Guide for Beginners

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Nigerian Dwarf goats are compact, docile, and productive little animals…

Because they are smaller than standard goats, and have a friendly disposition, they are easier to manage and live with, making them popular as pets. But they are also low-maintenance dairy goats, giving a surprising amount of high-quality, high-fat milk despite their small size.

There are a growing number of people who appreciate the easy care and versatility of these goats, and they can be enjoyed both as companion animals and for profit in a dairy farm.

Quick Navigation
Nigerian Dwarf Goat Origin
Difference between Nigerian Dwarf Goats and Nigerian Pygmy Goats
Nigerian Dwarf Goat Uses
Nigerian Dwarf Goat Characteristics
Nigerian Dwarf Goat Price
Nigerian Dwarf Goat Breeders
Breeding Nigerian Dwarf Goats

Nigerian Dwarf Goat Origin

The Nigerian Dwarf goats were originally bred in West Africa, where they were valuable for being easy to care for in harsh conditions, requiring less feed than other goats, but still being a source of meat and milk.

In the early- to mid-twentieth century, the goats were imported on ships along with big cats and African predators destined for American zoos. They were intended to be a low-maintenance food source for African predators on the long journey across the ocean.

Many goats survived the trip, and thus found a home in American zoos, where they became extremely popular in petting zoos due to their small size and friendly nature. Children are immediately attracted to these handsome, approachable little animals, and they soon found their way onto farms and pasture as pets.

Difference between Nigerian Dwarf Goats and Nigerian Pygmy Goats

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If you are thinking that the breed history and American history of Nigerian Dwarf goats and Pygmy goats sounds extremely similar, you are correct. Both breeds are very similar in origins and uses.

The primary difference between Nigerian Dwarf goats and Nigerian Pygmy goats are their body proportions. Nigerian Pygmy goats tend to have stocky, barrel-like bodies, a bit like normal-sized goats with short legs. Nigerian Dwarf goats, on the other hand, are proportioned more delicately overall, like normal-sized goats scaled down smaller.

There are also two different breed standards for Nigerian Dwarf goats, depending on whether they are being used as dairy goats or not.

Nigerian Dwarf Goat Uses

Nigerian Dwarf goats are popular to have on a small farm for their overall usefulness and good nature, rather than their specific purpose. Here are a few reasons people enjoy Nigerian Dwarf goats:

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    Like all goats, Nigerian Dwarf goats are useful in pastures to clear weeds and underbrush and improve grass for grazing animals. Their docile nature makes them easy to keep with grazing animals and not require special care or quarters
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    As a livestock breed, they are eligible for 4H projects. They are small and easy to manage, making them an excellent candidate for children's projects like 4H and FFA
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    They give a good quantity of high-quality milk for their size. Their milk is exceptionally high in butterfat, making it excellent for goat cheese, creams, and other goat milk products
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    They are polyestrous and can be bred all year long, so a small number of does can maintain a steady supply of milk
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    They typically produce 3-5 kids per kidding, so a small herd can grow fast, or kids and wethers can be sold as pets
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    They are very popular simply as pets and companion animals, and their small size makes them easy to live with even in more urban settings.

In short, for people who already have a small or large farm, it's easy to simply add Nigerian Dwarf goats and enjoy their many benefits. And for those looking for a fun, friendly, charming pet, a Nigerian Dwarf goat doesn't require much more space or care than most breeds of dog.

Nigerian Dwarf Goat Characteristics

As mentioned above, Nigerian Dwarf goats have two different breed standards. The American Goat Society and American Dairy Goat association have different conformation standards than the Nigerian Dwarf Goat Association.

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Appearance

Generally speaking, Nigerian Dwarf goats should look like a smaller version of Swiss Alpine goats. AGA standards allow any coat and have no preference for brown or blue eyes (blue eyes are common in the breed, but uncommon in other dairy goats). NDGA standard disallows curly hair, a Roman nose, and pendulous ears.

Size

AGA standards require Nigerian Dwarf does to be no taller than 22.5 inches at the withers, and bucks to be no more than 23.5 inches. NDGA standards allow does no taller than 21 inches at the withers, and bucks to be no taller than 23 inches.

Production

Nigerian Dwarf does give 1-8 pounds of milk per day when lactating, with an average of 2.5 pounds per day. Their milk averages 6.5% butterfat, but can reach as high as 10% late in lactation.

Disposition

Nigerian Dwarf goats are known for being friendly, playful, and outgoing. They seek out and enjoy interacting with people, and will respond readily to vocal calls. Many people bottle feed them to ensure human bonding and make them better pets, but many others feel that bottle feeding makes them actually too human dependent and demanding.

Nigerian Dwarf Goat Price

Goat Meat Farming: Pros and ConsGoat Meat Farming: Pros and Cons

The cost for registered Nigerian Dwarf breeding stock is $200-$500 per goat, depending on their availability and bloodline. Wethers to be sold as pets are generally available for as little as $50-$100.

Nigerian Dwarf Goat Breeders

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The best source for the best Nigerian Goat breeders is the website of the Nigerian Dwarf Goat Association.

Raising Nigerian Dwarf Goats

Nigerian Dwarf goats are adaptable to a variety of weather conditions and are a low-maintenance animal.

Known to be sociable and friendly, their small size makes them easier to care for than larger goat breeds, because they require less space and less feed.

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Nigerian Dwarf goat social needs.

Like all goats, Nigerian Dwarfs are herd animals and will not be healthy or happy when kept alone. If you are keeping a Nigerian Dwarf as a pet, they will often not do well in an environment where they are alone for extended periods. Keeping them with other goats, or even with grazing animals or dogs, will help satisfy the social needs of this outgoing little animal.

Nigerian Dwarf goat medical needs.

Like all goats, Nigerian Dwarf need periodic hoof trimming and deworming, depending on their diet and lifestyle. Most people trim hooves every 4-8 weeks, deworm several times a year, and vaccinate annually. Fortunately, their small size makes handling them easy. Make sure you have access to a veterinarian who is familiar with the needs of goats.

Nigerian Dwarf Goat Food Needs. 

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Water. Goats should always have access to fresh, clean water. Remember that your Nigerian Dwarf goats will need more water than usual in hot weather or when lactating.

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Forage and feed. ​Nigerian Dwarf will happily browse on shrubs, weeds, herbs, and leaves. Allowing them freedom of pasture also gives them the exercise they need to stay healthy and prevent health problems. Depending on the size of your pasture, the variety of plants available, and the season, alfalfa hay can and should be offered for free feeding.

Purchase very high-quality hay for the healthiest goats and best quality milk. Alfalfa hay is high in calcium, which is essential when goats are kidding and producing milk. Alfalfa hay can be expensive, so some people supplement other high-quality hay with alfalfa pellets instead. Grain is a desirable source of extra nutrition when a goat is producing milk, but is not strictly necessary.

Supplements. Depending on the plants in your pasture, local soil composition, and nutritional composition of your hay, it is likely that your goats will need mineral supplements. If you are providing high-quality food, they may only require small amounts of trace minerals.

When free-fed, goats will only eat as much mineral supplements as they need. Use a mineral supplement designed for goats or cattle, and avoid supplements designed for sheep, because goats and cows require copper, which is toxic to sheep. You can also feed your Nigerian Dwarf goats fruit and vegetable scraps from the kitchen to add variety to their diet.

Nigerian Dwarf goat enclosure needs.

Like all goats, Nigerian Dwarfs are agile and ready jumpers, and require ample space to roam and exercise to prevent unnecessary wear and tear on your fencing. Many people provide toys for their Nigerian Dwarf goats, to suit their playful nature and need for exercise.

They will welcome tree stumps, cable spools, and even large rocks for climbing and jumping, but keep these toys well away from fences. Their small size limits how high they can jump, and naturally reduces the potential for damaging your fences and enclosures.

Remember that fences not only keep goats in, but should keep predators out, and Nigerian Dwarfs are especially susceptible to predation, depending on your local wildlife. Even some stray dogs can pose a threat to Nigerian Dwarfs.

Fences should be about 4 feet high since Nigerian Dwarf goats can't jump higher than that. Goats will lean, stand, rub, and chew on fencing, particularly if they have smaller pasture, or if there seems to be attractive forage on the other side, so posts should be no further than 8 feet apart.

The best way to secure your Nigerian Dwarf goats is with a woven wire fence with 2x4-inch openings too small for adults to put their heads through: woven wire is strong enough to withstand the chewing, leaning, and standing that the fence will endure. Woven/goat wire can be purchased in rolls that are already 4 feet high. 

Nigerian Dwarf goat shelter needs.

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All goats need shelter at night and in poor weather. Situate your shelter well away from your fence, so that goats aren't able to jump from the roof of their shelter over the fence, and avoid situating the shelter on low ground that would accumulate rain.

Many people find that a normal dog house is perfect for a Nigerian Dwarf buck or a dry doe. It is better to have a dry dirt floor than a wood one; wood flooring can get slippery with mud or manure, and potentially injure a goat or cause foot problems.

Breeding Nigerian Dwarf Goats

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Nigerian Dwarf does can come into heat when they are as young as 4 months, but breeding them that early should be avoided, and it's better to wait until they are 8-12 months old.

They are polyestrous, and will come into heat when they are exposed to a male, so it's a good idea to keep young does away from bucks until you are ready for them to breed. 

Keep in mind that bucks can breed at as young as 2 months old, and they should be kept away from does if you don't intend any accidental pregnancies. They are prolific breeders, and does can give birth to 3-4 (sometimes even 5!) kids per kidding.

When a doe is coming into heat, she will generally show signature behaviors, such as:

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    Tail flagging
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    Signs of mucous or discharge
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    Swollen rear end
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    More pronounced or unusual yelling or bleating
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    If she is exposed to a buck, she will usually show greater interest in him and seek him out.

Nigerian Dwarf goats produce milk for about 300 days per freshening, and breed throughout the year, rather than seasonally. This makes their polyestrous nature favorable. If you want a steady supply of delicious, high-quality goat milk, you only need a couple does, and to stagger their breeding.

If you plan to breed Nigerian Dwarf goats, it is good to have some overlap in their milk production, because of the high possibility of having 5 kids in a kidding; a doe may give birth to more kids than she can nurse, and having another lactating doe available allows fostering or bottle feeding.

Breeding Nigerian Dwarf goats presents the challenge that all goat farmers have: keeping a buck so that you can breed your goats when desired, but isolating him from the does so that they don't breed to early, or more than once. Even relatively small Nigerian Dwarf bucks can be quite determined when they want to access a receptive doe, so their enclosure needs to be very sturdy.

And even bucks that need to be separated from the herd still have social needs, and should be kept with other animals or a wether for company. However, unlike many breeds, Nigerian Dwarf bucks are more docile and easy to handle, so they are less of a challenge to keep or contain.

If you choose to keep a buck, it is best to not have him share a fence with the does. Goats are resourceful, and have been known to breed through fences. Create an enclosure for the buck, with a clear area of 15 or more feet between it and the enclosure for the does. This buffer zone will not only prevent unwanted breeding through the shared fence, but it will also discourage him from attacking the fence and putting undue strain on it.

As an alternative, you may find a neighbor with a buck and arrange periodic “dates” for your does when you are ready for them to come into season and to breed. This is a popular method for keeping constant milk production, while avoiding some of the expense and challenge of owning your own buck.

Nigerian Dwarf wethers make excellent and popular pets, and this popularity as a pet helps to reduce some of the stress of figuring out what do to with the unneeded male kids born several times a year. It is also a good source of additional income from a Nigerian Dwarf goat farm.

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