About Nigerian Dwarf Goats

Nigerian Dwarf Goats

Just in case you aren't familiar with Nigerian Dwarf goats, we thought we would share a little about this wonderful breed. They originally came to America from West Africa as food for the large cats being imported for zoos. Some of the little goats survived the trip and became attractions at zoos. Eventually two distinct types of miniature goats developed from these original imports. The Pygmy goat is heavier boned, aptly described as "a beer keg with legs". They are mostly raised for meat and as pets. The Nigerian Dwarf is bred to be more like a miniature dairy goat with length of body and proportions similar to their standard counterparts.

Pholia Farm RD Meet Virginia photo courtesy of Nancy Boling at Sweetwater Farm

Breed Standard

What should a ND look like? Well, like a smaller version of a standard dairy goat. Does should be 17"-19" and no more than 22.5" at the withers. Bucks can be up to 23.5" tall. Ideal weight should be around 75+- lbs. The face should be straight. Although a slight dish is okay, a roman nose is not. The coat should be short-medium and soft, and the ears should be upright.

ADGA Breed Standard

Temperament

These little goats are super friendly and gentle. They make great 4H and FFA projects and even small children can handle them safely. We get lots of enjoyment spending time with our NDs and getting to know each one's unique personality. Even the bucks are fun to be around (except during rut when they are stinky).

Colorful

One of the fun things about raising NDs is that they come in all sorts of colors and patterns. In fact, you never know what color a kid is going to be. Sometimes they even change colors as they get older. The only color variation that is not completely acceptable is silver agouti. It is considered a minor fault.

Colors and Patterns

Small Size

The small size of the Nigerian Dwarf goat is perfect for smaller farms and even backyards. They require less space and less feed, but still produce an incredible amount of milk for their size. Most does will produce 2 quarts/day when milked twice/day. Of course that will vary with each doe and throughout a does productive life. NDs are actually preferred by some cheese makers because although they produce less milk, their milk is higher in butterfat (6-10%) than standard dairy does.