Depending on what your intention and purpose is for obtaining goats will greatly determine what breed of goats will be roaming your acreage. See chart below that hopefully will help you decide what breed of goats will make you happy and/or profitable. The chart below ranks the top ten domestic breeds in popularity.
For first-time goat owners, Pygmy goats and Nigerian Dwarf goats are often recommended for their small size, friendly temperaments, and ease of care. Pygmy goats are hardy and adaptable, while Nigerian Dwarf goats are known for their high milk production and gentle nature. I have only had Pygmy goats on my acreage. To me, nothing beats a baby Pygmy goat for entertainment and a lot of laughs.
Check out the baby goat video below.
So if and when you decide to take the plunge with goats, regardless of breed, the following terminology applies to them all just so you will appear very knowledgeable to the prospective goat seller !
1) Doe or Nanny: This is the adult female goat
2) Ram: This is the adult male goat
3) Wether: This was once a male goat but has been fixed.
4) Kid: This is a young goat (either gender)
Breed | Average Weight (lbs) | Primary Use | |
1. | Nubian | 132-176 | Dairy |
2. | Saanen | 132-154 | Dairy |
3. | Alpine | 121-165 | Dairy |
4. | LaMancha | 110-143 | Dairy |
5. | Boer | 198-265 | Meat |
6. | Nigerian Dwarf | 77-88 | Dairy/Pet |
7. | Angora | 88-132 | Fiber |
8. | Pygmy | 26-40 | Pet/Exhibition |
9. | Fainting (Tennessee) | 70-100 | Ornamental/Pet |
10. | Damascus | 154-198 | Dairy/Meat |
Also, regardless of breed, the following items will be essential to get started with goats. We will start with their living/sleeping quarters.