Nigerian Dwarf Goat

Two major dwarf goat breeds can be found in the United States; the Nigerian Dwarf and the African Pygmy.  These breeds share a common genetic origin in the variable population of small African goats imported to the U.S. between the 1930s and 1950s.  Used originally as exhibits in zoos, over time these goats have become great companion animals.

DESCRIPTION

The Nigerian Dwarf breed originated from the same genetic foundation as the African Pygmy, but these goats have been selected to resemble miniature dairy goats with slender bodies.  Nigerian dwarf goats vary in size.  Males can grow up to 23 inches tall and does to no more than 21 inches.  Main color families of the Nigerian dwarf include black, white, chocolate, red and gold.  Random white markings and spots are common, as well as other color combinations. Nigerian Dwarf goats have short, straight horns, which are regularly removed by the goats’ owners for the safety of both the goats and the people in contact with them.

NATURAL HISTORY

The Nigerian Dwarf Goat was originally selected as a companion and show animal with emphasis on the breed’s graceful appearance and gentle disposition.  The production qualities of the breed, however, have also attracted great attention.  Nigerian dwarf does are capable of producing one to two quarts of milk per day.  The milk is high in butterfat and makes excellent cheese and butter.  Does generally breed year-round and produce twins.  They can be milked for up to ten months, but can also be allowed to dry up on their own if milking is no longer desired.  Nigerian dwarf goats are good candidates for small scale milk production where a year round supply of a moderate amount of milk is the goal.

HISTORY

The versatility of the Nigerian Dwarf, as well as its hardiness and gentle disposition, have given it a great appeal, and the breed’s population has increased significantly in recent years, registering nearly 7000 purebred animals in 2002.  According to the American Livestock Breeds Conservancy*, Nigerian Dwarf goats are recovering from being an endangered farm breed as listed by the above organization.

MEET OUR GOATS

The Nature Center has five Nigerian Dwarf goats: two females named Cocoa and Chanelle and three males named Simon, Rolo, and Houdini. Houdini was born at the Nature Center in the spring of 2008 to mom, Cocoa. Our Nigerian Dwarf goats live on the Educational Farm.  Their diet consists of a nutritious blend of sweet feed and hay.  They also have a salt block which they lick to get other nutrients, and are given occasional fruit and vegetable treats.

INFORMATION LINKS

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©2002 WNC Nature Center