NIGERIAN DWARF GOAT BREED

Nigerian Dwarf Goat

Two miniature goat breeds are found in the United States, the Nigerian Dwarf and the Pygmy. These breeds share a common genetic origin in the variable population of small African goats imported to the United States between the 1930s and 1950s. Used originally as exhibition animals in zoos, the goats later became popular as companion animals.

The Pygmy goat breed was recognized by the American Goat Society in 1976. During the last two decades, it has been standardized through selection for small size and stocky conformation. The breed includes a limited color range, primarily agouti, though other solid colors along with the belted color pattern are also accepted.

The Nigerian Dwarf breed originated from the same genetic foundation as the Pygmy, but these goats have been selected to resemble miniature dairy goats with more slender bodies. All colors and patterns, including bi- and tri-color combinations, are accepted. Horns may or may not be present. Nigerian Dwarf goats vary in size, with bucks’ height up to 23 1/2" at the withers and does’ height up to 22 1/4". The ideal size of the breed, however, remains a point of debate within the breeder community, and there are now several breed organizations reflecting differing philosophies.

The Nigerian Dwarf 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 attention. Nigerian Dwarf does produce 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. These production qualities make Nigerian Dwarf goats good candidates for small scale milk production where a year-round supply of a moderate amount of milk is the goal.

The versatility of the Nigerian Dwarf, as well as its hardiness and gentle disposition, have given it great appeal, and the breed’s population has increased significantly in recent years, registering nearly 7000 purebred animals in 2002. The breeder community faces a challenge, however, in determining the parameters of the breed. Selection for production qualities may tend to increase the size of the goats, while selection as a companion animal may emphasize small size. Breed conservation will be best served by building consensus around a vision for the breed that includes its unique combination of characteristics.