Pygmy goats are small, compact goats that are most popular as pets rather than meat or milk-producing animals. Meat goats originated as a breed specifically raised for the supply of meat, which is called chevon, cabrito, or capretto. If you want to know more about chickens, quail, and goats, The Happy Chicken Coop is the place to be! Now that weve covered the characteristics of various dairy and meat goat breeds, lets briefly talk about show goat requirements. This is one of (if not the) most popular meat goat breeds in America. This site contains affiliate links. The breed took off in the U.S. around 2000 when breeders started crossing Kikos with Boer goats to combine meat production with mothering ability. This is a holistic way to save land and lives. FFA, 4-H, and Junior Grange members who competed in the Junior Dairy Goat Show were also allowed to compete in the Open Dairy Goat Show as long as the They can be a dual purpose breed, but are mainly used for milk. I wanted to raise a dairy goat so that I could provide my family with delicious and nutritious goat milk! They average about 100-150 pounds in weight and .5 1.5 gallons of milk per day. They are characterized by their long ears that hang down. Get your pen and paper in hand, if you havent done so already, and answer the following questions. Main Purpose: Milk Production: Lactation begins 3.5 years of age, 2,715 lbs. Even though it requires a bit more attention than other goats as they are prone to getting hyperthermia if their fur gets wet. Do you have a relatively dust free area where you will milk the goats? Originally bred in South Africa, Boers are now one of the principal meat goat breeds in the U.S. The LaMancha Goat Image Credit: souldust, Shutterstock Considered dairy goats, these animals are hardy and can stand up to most weather conditions. They are characterized by their long ears that hang down. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Saanen goats are said to be very friendly and great with children. They have long necks, thin legs, and nubby little tails that give them a playful look. While it is raised for both meat and milk, this goat is also a common pet. The pack goat selection also needs to focus on an animal that is docile and easy to train. Boer goats are a large horned goat that is usually white with brown on its head and ears. Crossbreeding with Nigerian dwarf goats has become so common the kids of such breeding operations may soon have an official breed classification. This milk is used to make many thick substances made from milk, such as butter, cheese, and ice cream. Now, you may have noticed that I said "goats" in plural, not a goat. Main Purpose: Milk Production: Lactation begins 3.5 years of age, 2,715 lbs. Does (females) can mature over 200 pounds, while bucks (males) can top out at around 340 pounds! Their milk has approximately a 4% butterfat content. Today, were ending our list of goat breeds with the Pygmy goat. Angora goats are expensive and difficult to find in most locations, making Pygora an economical fiber goat choice for many homesteaders. Alpine This dairy breed originated in the French Alps, and can thrive in nearly any climate. There are so many different options when it comes to buying a goat. Because they have such a long breeding season, they can produce milk almost all year long. In fact, it could turn out to be the opposite. Raising dairy goats for your family's milk supply. Do you want to use your goats for brush removal? Do you have time available, many months each year, to milk goats on a set schedule twice a day(optimally)? There was an error submitting your subscription. The indigenous goats of Africa were crossed with imported Nubian and Indian goats to produce Boer. A sick goat, for example, can also be nursed back to health, when they are provided a diet that contains leaves from trees. They will gain up to .5 pounds per day and do not require a lot of supplemental feeding. They are proportionate to larger breeds, only around 2 feet tall and 75 pounds. They can be a large goat ranging in weight from 135-175 pounds. One of the first decisions about raising goats is which breed or breeds to raise. Conclusion The Final Goat Breed Decision. PJ Jonas, who raises Alpines to provide milk for her family of 10 and runs a goat product business, says this breed is quiet and curious and tolerates humans well. The Nigerian Dwarf is described as gregarious and friendly and can come in any color or pattern. WebTo help I am going to go over the basics characteristics of each of the most popular breeds to help you best narrow down the best fit for you, your lifestyle, and your family. This goat breed is a bit aloof but friendly and has an excellent breeding rate. These popular goats have short, white hair and upright ears, and are known for their easy-going temperament. This dairy goat breed originated in Switzerland. The indigenous goats of Africa were crossed with imported Nubian and Indian goats to produce Boer. Now, heres an absolute win-win situation: goats are healthier when they browse. This breed is also raised for meat, or for both meat and dairy. The maximum height is 22.5 inches for does and 23.5 inches for bucks. Search our database of over 14573 posts with up-to-date information from our experts and veterinarians. Other popular goat breeds include the Which goat species make the best house pets? If you do not free-range your goat breeds they can be tied out and allowed to browse to fulfill as much of their dietary needs in the most natural way possible while saving you both money and time from a feeding perspective. There is no right or wrong goat breed to keep. The Pygmy makes a friendly, intelligent and gregarious pet. The most impressive things about Verata goats are their horns. "Breed Standards." You want some goats. As a vegan, Rachael is obsessed with helping animals in need both in her community and any. Mohair is used in floor rugs, carpets, and sometimes doll hair. How do you choose? If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it. It, too, is one of the most productive milking goats, yielding up to 5,700 pounds of milk per year. There are at least a dozen breeds that are popular for goat rearing in the U.S. These muscular animals produce milk with high protein and fat content, which makes for rich flavor and smooth texture. Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Here is a rundown of 20 popular goat breeds. 2016. Observe how the goat walks. The breed descended from a group of West African dwarfs imported to the U.S. from Africa between 1930 and 1960. These goats were developed in South Africa for their meat. This should get you started in the right direction. The Nubian, also called the Anglo-Nubian outside of North America, is a large, sturdy, and quite vocal dairy goat. Some goat breeds are not so common, and some are. We live in Ohio and goats are very popular here. What's the most common domestic goat breed in the U.S.? Boers are known to gain weight rapidly, a desirable trait among meat-producing goats, and can gain almost a pound per day. Are you looking for the best goat breeds to choose from? Mohair is used in floor rugs, carpets, and sometimes doll hair. Unsubscribe at any time. They are typically black in color, but they can be gray or brown too. No chemicals involved! Do you want to raise meat goat breeds? If you are looking for the ideal goat to raise for meat, whether to eat yourself or to sell, here are some of the best meat goat breeds. Agriculturally, they are known for their good milking abilities. Once a goat of this breed matures it typically weighs between 175 to 275 pounds with Billies and male wethers weighing the most. They give approximately .5 .75 gallons of milk per day and have a butterfat content of 3-4%. While this breed does produce milk, they are most often raised as pets and for show. Both males and females have long, floppy ears that sometimes surpass the length of their muzzles. Originating in Great Britain, Nubian goats are one of the most common breeds of dairy goat in the United States. Cashmere and mohair are primarily used in sweaters, scarves, coats and clothing. While they are classified as meat goats, many acreage owners keep them for pets because of their docile nature and entertaining ways. Their erect ears make them look curious, and their muscular bodies make them strong enough to stand up to predators when necessary. These goats have long ears that hang down the sides of their heads, making them look a little sad. Some even refer to them as "earless"; however, the LaMancha can have one of two types of ears: gopher or elf. Check out the website for the association that sanctions each particular show and you will find written details covering the exact breed standards for that show. Unfortunately, because they are a small goat, they give a lot less milk than most dairy goats. The Livestock Conservancy. The LaMancha Goat Image Credit: souldust, Shutterstock Considered dairy goats, these animals are hardy and can stand up to most weather conditions. This small dairy breed has big personality! These muscular animals produce milk with high protein and fat content, which makes for rich flavor and smooth texture. If you choose to raise goats, you should raise at least two together. These goats have white or cream-colored hair, and some have small patches of color scattered throughout their body. These tiny goats are only 16 to 23 inches tall and weigh only 55 to 85 pounds. One more important piece to this buy the healthiest animals possible. These goats produce up to 25% of their body weight in mohair each and every year. They do not actually faint but merely drop to the ground for less than a minute when they are startled due to a genetic defect. Fiber goats are any breed of goat that produces cashmere wool or mohair from their coat. So, now you know you should buy at least two goats. They come in a wide range of colors, including white, brown, black, and gray, and their hair may feature any number of patterns. What I havent mentioned yet is the business aspect of rent-a-goat. These goats carry packs of gear on their backs. Spanish goats have long shaggy coats, are extremely hardy, and are able to survive and thrive under harsh conditions. 9 Bunny Breeds That Are Too Cute for Words, 12 Animals That May Have Inspired Mythical Creatures, How to Build 3 Simple Types of Root Cellars, How to Feed and Tend Goats on Small Farms, 10 Remarkable Types of Caterpillars and What They Become, The Types of Fences Available to Use on the Farm. These cute, friendly animals are known to be much easier to raise than cows, making them the best animal for homesteaders or small-scale farmers. Each goat breed has a different meat and milk production rate. Senior Veterinary Product Technical Specialist. Many homeowners who are looking to do a little homesteading in the backyard have included goats in their lives. The breed was first seen in the US in the 1950s. goat, any ruminant and hollow-horned mammal belonging to the genus Capra. Whether you're looking for milk, meat, fiber, pets, or grass maintenance, there's a goat to fit your needs. 1. Alpine goats are completely domestic! Encyclopedia of Dairy Sciences (Third edition). However, after spending time with a Nubian goat, you will find that they are naturally cheerful. They are dairy goats, meat goats, fiber goats, and miniature goat breeds that are all heralded for their various benefits around and offerings. They weigh approximately 100 120 pounds and while smaller in size, they make a good dual purpose breed giving about .5 1 gallon of milk per day. The LaMancha breed was the very first goat breed that I purchased. Posted on September 7, 2022 by HappyChicken More than 300 different goat breeds are roaming in pastures around the globe. If I had to choose just one breed it would be this one! This meat goat breed is most frequently kept in the southern region of America. The LaMancha goat has tiny ears and a big round belly. Today, were ending our list of goat breeds with the Pygmy goat. They are still really popular for both their wonderful temperaments and their lovely Mohair coats. They're social animals that are prone to loneliness. When purchasing dairy goats, consider the facilities that you have for milking goats. Many homeowners who are looking to do a little homesteading in the backyard have included goats in their lives. This meat goat from New Zealand is easy to raise, grows to market weight quickly, and will even clean up weeds on your acreage. These goats are small in size and have a variety of coat colors. Nubian goats are cute, affectionate, entertaining, and full of personality. Oberhasli Goat Breed: Characteristics, Facts and Origin, Raising Goats: 11 Most Important Things You Need to Know, A Saanen goat with any coat color combination except for pure white or light cream, Small to medium sized goat (Note: This breed is raised for meat, but more so when they are cross bred with a larger meat goat breed. Do you have time available, many months each year, to milk goats on a set schedule twice a day, Consistent milk producers up to a gallon a day with butterfat content 3.5%, Long lactation cycle (Note: Great characteristic if you need a goat in milk for lengthy time-frames), Erect ears, straight nose, coat colors vary, High volume milk up to 1-2 gallons a day with butterfat content 4% average, Small to no ears, straight nose, coat colors vary, High volume milk up to 2 gallons a day with butterfat content 4.5% average (Note: Great butterfat content for cheese and soap making), Friendly, gentle and vocal (Note: Nubians love people, but they also let you know), Long pendulous ears extend about 1 below the muzzle, convex (Roman) nose, coat colors vary, Large size goat one of the largest of the dairy breeds, Produce large volumes of milk butterfat content average 2-3% (Note: This breed is touted as the Holsteins of the dairy goats because can produce over 2 gallons of milk a day), Straight or dished nose, erect ears, coat color is light cream or white, Average milk production butterfat average 3% (Note: Despite the average milk production, one Toggenburg holds the all-time milk production record with the American Dairy Goat Association! The reason being that male goats are often larger than female goats, so they withstand the weight of the cargo, yet they are not as large as a buck, and they don't go into "rut" (becoming focused on breeding). Most popular and most expensive meat goat breed, Medium sized pendulous ears, white bodies with dark reddish-brown heads (Note: we also see black or varied colored heads, as well as solid dark coats, and less common spotted coats), Can breed year-round but generally breed seasonally, especially in areas that have shorter periods of daylight in the winter months, Hardy (Note: This breed is one of the hardiest of the meat goats), Excellent mothering and nursing (Note: This is key to the Kikos popularity). Do you have a relatively dust free area where you will milk the goats? Lets talk about the "why" - why you want to purchase goats. What is the difference between them?! This breed is gentle and lovable, and even breeding bucks are handled easily. These Bangladesh natives are perhaps the best browsing goat breed in existence making them inexpensive to feed and great for brush clearing and being harvested for their meat. The Alpine is a very large goat averaging 135-180 pounds. ), Seasonal breeders; produce twins less often than any other goat breeds. Wild goats If you are seeking a small goat that still produces a large amount of milk, the Oberhasli breed might be a perfect fit. They give approximately 1 1.5 gallons of milk per day with a 3.5% butterfat content. Alpine Photo by Gary Crossey These goats derive from the French Alps, so they are also often called French Alpine goats. They're good mothers, easy birthers, hardy, and resistant to many parasites. Pet Keen is reader-supported. This is because they arent limited to grazing close to the ground, which subjects them to the ingestion of parasites. And while milk production varies based on the goat, nutrition, etc. Raising Goats The Complete How To Guide, Keeping Different Goat Breeds and Why You Would Want To, goat breeds can be milked or harvested for meat, goats stem from cross-breeding between Angora, 11 Must Haves For First Time Beginner Chicken Owners: Checklist for Chicken Coop, Sable Goat Breed: Traits, Health & Feeding, Oberhasli Goats: The Swiss Dairy Breeds Traits and More, How Many Toes Do Chickens Have? Cross bred goats have tendencies to be hardier goats. They have a genetic characteristic a myotonia congenital gene, which causes their leg muscles to lock up when they are startled. Your email address will not be published. Saanen goats are one of the larger dairy goat breeds, averaging 150 pounds. WebCant decide? Even during the winter months, a goat herd can browse on dead leaves, twigs, and scant underbrush to fulfill most of their dietary needs. 1. Although many types of goats are kept for their dairy, alpine goats are by far the most common. Here are 12 breeds to consider. Cashmere and mohair are primarily used in sweaters, scarves, coats and clothing. Posted on September 7, 2022 by HappyChicken More than 300 different goat breeds are roaming in pastures around the globe. They are said to have a particularly strong flavored milk which can differ from goat to goat. Angora Goat The Angora goat breed is very popular for their expensive Mohair fiber that it produces. Depending on your regions goat market, these goat breeds are often more expensive and difficult to find than others. They yield about 4 pounds of fiber per year and weigh about 60 80 pounds. Angoras are thought to be more susceptible to poor health caused by parasite infection. However, even though many goats in the U.S. have Spanish lineage, there are few purebred Spanish goats. Cant decide? Spanish meat goats are a medium sized breed. This milk is used to make many thick substances made from milk, such as butter, cheese, and ice cream. Two does raised by Fallbrook Future Farmers of America member Taylor Michalke were awarded grand champion of breed at the San Diego County Fair's dairy goat show June 13-18. Their short tails usually stand above their backs unless they are feeling intimidated or threatened. Let's stay updated! FREE EMAIL BONUSTips & smart strategies to save time and money! 4 Incredible Alpine Goat Facts! Why Do Goats Headbutt? There are only a few specific breeds of fiber goats and miniature goats. If you want the finest milk goats, or animals that are hardy, animals that produce healthy kids, or good meat production, pay attention to the genetics consider registered goats that have proven records in production, or in the show ring. All the goat breeds are confusing, right? The Black Bengal goat is found in Bangladesh and surrounding areas. 1. per lactation Color Varieties: Cou Blanc, Cou Clair, Cou Noir, Sundgau, Pied, Chamoisee, Two-Tone Chamoisee, Broken Chamoisee (no Toggenburg pattern is allowed by the ADGA) If you're looking for an economical meat animal or are interested in making a little extra money, consider raising Boer goats. Other popular goat breeds include the What You Need To Know, Baby Goats Dying: Whats Happening and How To Stop It. These muscular animals produce milk with high protein and fat content, which makes for rich flavor and smooth texture. Angora goats produce mohair, often used in making sweaters, scarves, and other garments. Which is a great cost saver because even mini breeds are voracious eaters. Alpine This dairy breed originated in the French Alps, and can thrive in nearly any climate. They also are said to have the sweetest milk out of all the dairy goat breeds. Even though it requires a bit more attention than other goats as they are prone to getting hyperthermia if their fur gets wet. Livestock 12 popular goat breeds Whether you're looking for milk, meat, fiber, pets, or grass maintenance, there's a goat to fit your needs. Known as the "Fainting Goat" Note: These goats do not actually faint. We live in Ohio and goats are very popular here. Their body knows what is nutritionally best for them. Leave me a comment below and let me know! We won't send you spam. Alpine Photo by Gary Crossey These goats derive from the French Alps, so they are also often called French Alpine goats. Each goat breed has a different meat and milk production rate. Fitting conditioning for the show (deworming, tattooing, health checking), Grooming (clipping, hoof trimming, bathing). The Organic Goat Lady is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com, Designed by Elegant Themes | Powered by WordPress. Just because it is considered a mini goat, does not mean its very small. The Saanen hails from Switzerland's Saanen valley and is now distributed throughout more than 80 countries worldwide. They love to spend time with other goats and chickens. This dairy goat breed can be considered dual-purpose because it also offers flavorful and moist meat. Posted on September 7, 2022 by HappyChicken More than 300 different goat breeds are roaming in pastures around the globe. But they are a very docile, even tempered goat. We dont have that answer, but we have some breed characteristics to share with you. The Golden Guernsey is a smaller goat. The LaMancha goat has tiny ears and a big round belly. They typically don't flourish in a solitary environment. The Nigerian Dwarf goat is a miniature dairy breed and a year round breeder. The breed was first seen in the US in the 1950s. I'd like to receive the free email course. The Kiko goat is active, athletic, and curious, so they need plenty of room to roam. These goats are hardy with a great capacity for adaptation. The Alpine goat can produce 1 2 gallons of milk again. These goats require a bit of extra protection from the weather, since they can get hypothermia if their long hair gets wet from cold rain or snow. Consider renting goats out, for a fee, to clear brush. Also, beware, Nubians tend to be very vocal! Ask what preventative measures have been taken. Some goat breeds are not so common, and some are. This dairy breed originated in the French Alps, and can thrive in nearly any climate. The average about of fat in the milk is 3.5%, which is high. Spanish goats are known for their calm personality, are not overtly social creatures, and produced an exceptionally tender and moist cut of meat. They are docile and hardy goat that also produces a nice quality of meat. Kiko goats are top-quality meat goats and often sell for less than the more broadly popular Boer goats. Medium size goat (but can vary from medium to large), Not as hardy (compared to other goat breeds) (Note: We suggest that you research Angora goat breeders in your area if you want to go the fiber goat route. FFA, 4-H, and Junior Grange members who competed in the Junior Dairy Goat Show were also allowed to compete in the Open Dairy Goat Show as long as the Boer Boer is the best goat breed for meat. A Nubian nanny goat can produce one to one and a half gallons of sweet butterfat milk daily. The Kiko goat was developed in New Zealand by crossing feral goats with dairy goats in the 1980s. Other popular goat breeds include the Alpine Goats come from the Swiss Alps and were introduced to the rest of the world many decades ago. They have black markings that go from their eyes to the tips of their muzzle. Please try again. Considered dairy goats, these animals are hardy and can stand up to most weather conditions. Alpine goats originated in the Swiss Alps but were bred to be larger in France, where they were renamed French-Alpines. What You Need To Know! The pygmy goat is knownand widely adoredfor its short stature. Before you purchase any breed of goat, make sure the characteristics of the goat "conforms" to (matches) the required characteristics in the show-ring. It is easy to think that a goat is a goat, but there are many different types of goats that deserve recognition as their own unique breed. Yep, that fancy cashmere sweater that you love is made from goat hair! They commonly have a long coat and are very docile. Boers are known to gain weight rapidly, a desirable trait among meat-producing goats, and can gain almost a pound per day. "How many types of goats are there?" Do you want to raise dairy goat breeds? Angora goats have long hair called mohair. There is much variation between breeds, from size to color to behavior; one breed is even known for its fainting tendencies. If you don't want to breed goats, don't mix bucks with does. I love the taste of LaMancha milk, its a very mild tasting milk that everyone loves. You want some goats. The LaMancha goat has tiny ears and a big round belly. WebThere are 14 common goat breeds in America: Alpine, LaMancha, Nubian, Oberhasli, Saanen, Sable, Toggenburg, Nigerian Dwarf, Boer, Myotonic (2 types), Angora, Crossbred and Pygmy. They are great independent browsers even during times of drought and in sparsely forested areas. When you are in the first stages of choosing your own goats, be sure to plan on buying two or more. Is lab-grown meats carbon footprint bigger than retail beef? A Closer Look At Their Feet, Baking Soda for Goats: Benefits + How To Feed To Your Goats, Can Chickens Eat Clover? Do you want to make goat milk cheese or soap? They are equally well known for their mild demeanor and intelligence. Subscribe my Newsletter for new blog posts, tips & new photos. These muscular animals produce milk with high protein and fat content, which makes for rich flavor and smooth texture. Did you know that goat hair can be used to make clothing and other products? Do you want to enjoy your goats as pets, and not get involved with milking, breeding, or birthing? Know what to look for before the goat breeder shows you a pedigree. For simplicity, Ill walk you through the different breeds of goats and typical functions of goats that are most popular with todays goat farmer and hobbyist.