They ARE the little Goats with a big future

            Although they are small in size, they are one of the most popular dairy goats.  Nigerian
            Dwarf Goats are enjoying rising popularity partially because of their small size and
            partially because of their colourful markings.  They are a dual purpose breed, supplying
            milk for the family or farm, as well as being wonderful, gentle pets who control weed
            growth. 

         History and General Information

             The Nigerian Dwarf goat is a miniature dairy breed of West African origin. Their small
             stature means that they do not require as as much space as their larger dairy goat
             counterparts and their gentle, friendly personalities make them good companion pets
             and easy to handle - even small children can be at ease with these little goats.
             Nigerian Dwarfs are still considered "rare" by the American Livestock Breeds
             Conservancy, with their numbers totaling about 7,000 in the national registries.

              A healthy Nigerian Dwarf doe can produce a surprising amount of sweet milk for her
              small size - up to two quarts per day. In addition, Nigerian Dwarf milk is higher in
              butterfat (6-10%) and higher in protein content than most dairy breeds. However,
              many Nigerian Dwarf owners do not raise their goats for milk but for the pleasure
              and companionship that these little caprines bring to their lives.

           Nigerian Dwarfs vs. Pygmies

             Although they have similar origins, Nigerian Dwarfs and African Pygmies are separate
             and distinct breeds. Pygmies are bred to be "cobby" and heavy boned.  A show quality
             pygmy looks like a beer keg with legs attached. Dwarfs are bred to have the length of
             body and structure in proportion to their larger dairy goat counterparts. Pygmies are
             also primarily "agouti," with black, silver and caramel being the most common colors.
             There is no color discrimination among Nigerian Dwarfs under AGS (American Goat
             Society) registry. Under NDGA (Nigerian Dwarf Goat Association) registry policy,
             pygmy coloration and pattern is a minor fault.

           Nigerian Dwarf Coloring

             Color is one of the factors that makes breeding Dwarfs so popular. You can never be
             sure what color the babies will be until they are born; even then you can't be sure
             because many times their color will change. Main color families are black, chocolate
             and gold with virtually every color combination imaginable being produced. Dwarfs can
             be Dalmatian spotted, pinto-patterned, tri-colored or just classy shades of solid jet
             black, white, chocolate or gold. Buckskin patterns are also popular, described by
             contrasting facial stripes, a "cape" around the shoulders with coordinating leg
             markings. Brown eyes are most common; however, dwarfs with china blue eyes are
             becoming increasingly available.

           Nigerian Dwarf Breed Standards

             A Nigerian Dwarf goat's conformation is similar to that of the larger dairy
             goat breeds.The parts of the body are in balanced proportion. The nose
             is straight, although there may be a small break or stop at the level of the
             eyes. The ears are upright. The coat is soft with short to medium hair. Any
             colour or combination of colors is acceptable. The AGS breed standard
             sets the maximum height for does at 22.4" with bucks up to 23.6". NDGA
             maximum heights for does and bucks is 21" and 23", respectively.
             There is no minimum height; although NDGA specifies an "ideal" height
             between 17" and 19" for does and 18" to 20" for bucks. Animals are
             disqualified from the show ring for being oversized for the breed standard,
             and/or having a curly coat roman nose, pendulous ears or evidence of
             myatonia (this is associated with fainting goats.)

           Nigerian Dwarf Temperament

             Dwarf goats are gentle and loveable. Their calm, even temperament
             and engagingpersonalities make them suitable companions for all,
             including children, the disabled and the elderly. Even breeding
             bucks are handled easily. Because of their gentle temperaments,
             Nigerian Dwarfs make wonderful pets and great animal projects for children and youngt
             adults in FFA and 4H. Breeders of other types of goats find that
             their Dwarfs blend in with the rest of their herd and do not need special quarters; just
             adequate fencing to contain them because of their small size. Many Nigerian Dwarf
             goats share pastures peacefully with other livestock such as cattle, horses, llamas,
             and donkeys.

           Nigerian Dwarf Housing

             For one to just a few goats, many owners find that an oversized dog house or two
             does the job. For a few to several goats, a small barn or loafing shed can be used
             depending on the climate. Good ventilation and dry quarters is important for healthful
             Nigerian Dwarf care. Many owners find that providing a few "toys" for their goats
             provides them with hours of caprine entertainment. Tree stumps, rocks or empty cable
             spools are great for "king of the mountain" games and jumping.

           Nigerian Dwarf Breeding

             Dwarf goats breed year round. Many breeders breed their does three times in two
             years, giving the doe at least a six month break. This method seems to work better
             in warmer climates, breeders from cooler climates are noticing that does are not as
             receptive as frequently. Of course, this is a personal choice for each breeder. For the
             most part, Nigerian Dwarfs are a hardy breed with few  kidding problems. New
             babies average about 2 lbs. at birth but grow quickly. Does can be bred at 7- 8
             months of age if they have reached a good size. Some breeders prefer to wait until
             they are at least 1 year or older. Dwarf does can have several kids at a time, 3 and
             4 being common and sometimes even 5! Dwarfs are generally good mothers able to
             take care of their babies should you leave them to do the raising of the kids. They
             can also provide a surprising amount of milk for their size if you decide you want your
             own delicious goat milk.

              Bucks are able to be used for service as young as 3 months of age and easily by the
              time they are 7 or 8 months old. Because they can be fertile at such a young age,
              breeders are advised to wean does and bucks separately. Dwarf bucks are vigorous
              breeders but are gentle enough to be used for hand breeding or pasture breeding.
              Both methods are used successfully.

           Cost

             Average cost for registered breeding stock is $250 to $500US, with champion pedigrees,
             milk production record animals and unusual coloring receiving premium prices. Pet
             quality stock often costs much less, and wethers (neutered males) can be purchased
             for around $50 to $100US.