Nigerian dwarf goats originated in West African, but were developed and have become very popular in the United States. According to the Nigerian Dwarf Goat Association (NDGA), does should ideally measure between 17-19 inches at the withers (ADGA/AGS standard is no more than 22 1/2 inches). Bucks should ideally measure 19-21 inches at the withers (ADGA/AGS standard is no more than 23 1/2 inches). They should have a straight nose, medium upright ears, and a soft, medium-length coat.
Does can be bred as early as 7-8 months, but most breeders wait until they have reached a mature size. Their gestation period is between 145 and 153 days, and they may as many as five kids, with two to three being average. Bucks can be fertile as young as 7 weeks old, but usually won't be used to service does until at least three months old.
Does can be bred as early as 7-8 months, but most breeders wait until they have reached a mature size. Their gestation period is between 145 and 153 days, and they may as many as five kids, with two to three being average. Bucks can be fertile as young as 7 weeks old, but usually won't be used to service does until at least three months old.
They come in a lot of different colors, with different marking patterns. The three main color families include black, chocolate, and gold. They may be solid, spotted, dual/tri-colored, or buckskin. They ordinarily have brown eyes. But, they are the only dairy breed which may have blue eyes. So, just like my chickens, aka: walking lawn ornaments, you can have a herd with many different colors and unique coloring patterns to "decorate" your farmstead!
They are known to be gentle, people-loving, and smart. They can be leash-trained or clicker trained. Many learn their names and basic commands. Due to their smaller stature, they can be handled easily, even by children. They make great companions and 4H/FFA projects.
They are known to be gentle, people-loving, and smart. They can be leash-trained or clicker trained. Many learn their names and basic commands. Due to their smaller stature, they can be handled easily, even by children. They make great companions and 4H/FFA projects.
Take if from someone whose dog breed is always going to be a Great Dane. Bigger is not always better. While I absolutely love the temperament and gentle-heartedness of this big dog, I absolutely wish they had a miniature version. Feed costs and vet bills are so much higher, as is all the basic preventative medications needed to make sure they are safe. Well, it is the same with dairy goats. Owning Nigerian Dwarf goats means your feed costs and the cost for caring for these little caprine wonders will be cut dramatically. |
Nigerian Dwarf goats can produce 2 quarts+ of milk each day, for about 10 months! Wow!! And their milk is generally sweeter and higher in butterfat. Can you say, "CHEESE"! That's right. That means with a little effort, you can enjoy not only great tasting milk, but cheese, yogurt, kefir, ice cream, and several sweet treats (see ADGA's website for their recipes for Mexican caramel and chocolate fudge using goat's milk). You can also make wonderful soaps, shampoos, and lotions which are gentle and great for your skin!
|
One of my number one reasons for choosing Nigerian Dwarf goats????
Less space required = More goats!!
<<<< And, who can resist these cuties!