Nigerian Dwarf Goats are a popular breed known for their small size, friendly nature, and excellent milk production. This comprehensive guide provides an in-depth look at the breed, covering their physical characteristics, temperament, and care needs. Whether you're considering adding these goats to your homestead or just want to learn more, this profile offers essential information on their health, housing, feeding, and more.
Nigerian Dwarf Goat Breed History
Nigerian Dwarf goats are a small, friendly breed that originally came to America in the early to mid-1900s from Western Africa. They are believed to have first been imported to the United States as live food sources for big cats during ship transport to American zoos. The surviving goats were kept at the zoos as attractions. This once exotic breed was initially kept in zoos, quickly spread across the United States and Canada once sold to private homesteaders and breeders.
Since then, they have become a regular staple in homesteads and backyards across America. Nigerian dwarf goats are known for their high milk production despite their compact size. They are characterized by their diverse coat colors and patterns, as well as their playful and sociable nature. Their adaptability to various climates and ease of care make them popular among goat enthusiasts and homesteaders. Additionally, their milk is rich and creamy, making them a favorite for dairy products.
Nigerian Dwarf Goat Physical Characteristics
Shorter height is the primary breed characteristic of the Nigerian Dwarf, with does measuring no more than 22 1/2" at the withers, and bucks measuring no more than 23 1/2" at the withers (ADGA standards). Nigerian dwarf goats will have some variation in their appearance between long and short haired goats, but there are common characteristics that they exhibit.
Nigerians are fine boned, and long legged with flat bones and dairy characteristics, similar to that of the larger dairy goat breeds. The nose is straight. The ears are upright. Nigerian Dwarves are a dairy goat in miniature, most similar to the standard Swiss breeds.
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A few common features of this breed include:
- Black, White, Gold, Red and Brown Coloring
- Medium Ears
- Upright Ears
- Heavy Beard for Males
- Horns (unless disbudded)
Height & Weight
Nigerian Dwarf goats are aptly named for their small stature. This breed weighs between 40 to 60 pounds on average. This is significantly smaller than the average size of dairy goats, which is 125 pounds. Similarly, Nigerian Dwarfs are 24 to 30 inches in length and stand between 16 and 23 inches tall. To keep this in perspective the average dairy goat is a minimum of 30 inches tall (28 for females).
Goats reach maturity and full weight and size at about 24 months of age (2 years). Don't let their small stature fool you, they may be small but they can still jump a six foot fence.
Coat Colors and Pattern
Nigerian Dwarf goats are known for their striking coat colors and patterns, which contribute to their unique and charming appearance. The breed exhibits a wide range of colors, including:
- Black: Solid black or black with other color patterns.
- White: Pure white or white with contrasting markings.
- Gold: Various shades of gold, from light to deep hues.
- Red: Rich red tones, often with lighter or darker markings.
- Brown: Different shades of brown, including chocolate and tan.
In addition to solid colors, Nigerian Dwarf goats can have various patterns and markings, such as:
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- Spotted: Random spots or patches of different colors across the coat.
- Pied: Irregular patches of two or more colors.
- Roan: A mix of colors where the coat appears speckled or blended.
These diverse coat colors and patterns make each Nigerian Dwarf goat uniquely beautiful, adding to their appeal as both pets and show animals.
Distinctive Features
Nigerian Dwarf goats are distinguished by several unique features that set them apart from other goat breeds:
- Small Size: They are one of the smallest goat breeds, with adults typically standing between 17 to 21 inches at the shoulder, making them well-suited for small spaces and easy handling as larger breeds can weigh 150 pounds or more.
- Medium-Sized, Upright Ears: Their ears are medium in size and stand upright, which is a characteristic trait of the breed.
- Distinctive Coat Colors and Patterns: Nigerian Dwarf goats come in a wide range of colors and patterns, including black, white, gold, red, and brown, often with unique markings and spots.
- Compact Build: They have a stocky, muscular build with a proportionate body that supports their efficient milk production despite their small size.
- Beard in Males: Males often have a noticeable beard, which adds to their distinctive appearance.
- Horns: While some Nigerian Dwarf goats are polled (without horns), others have horns that can vary in size and shape.
These distinctive features contribute to the breed's charm and versatility, making Nigerian Dwarf goats popular for both hobby farms and as companion animals.
Nigerian Dwarf Goat Temperament and Behavior
It is no wonder why these small and easy going goats are so popular. Nigerian Dwarf Goats best known for being friendly, hardy, playful and strong milk producers (dairy goats). This versatile breed is great for dairy production or just plain happiness.
Personality Traits
Nigerian Dwarf goats are known for their friendly and playful personalities. They are curious and intelligent, often forming strong bonds with their human caregivers and enjoying interactive play. Their small size and gentle nature make them approachable and easy to handle.
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Noise Level
Nigerian Dwarf goats are considered a quiet breed as far as noise is concerned. This makes them a good candidate for more urban farms in populated neighborhoods. These goats make a decent amount of noise when it's feeding time. As long as you keep to a regular feeding schedule there should be no issue with these goats in a more urban setting. When young (2 months) they can be very vocal which is expect is typical of goat kids.
Social Behavior and Interaction
These goats are highly social animals and thrive in the company of other goats. They enjoy being part of a herd and can become lonely or stressed if kept alone. They are also known for their vocal nature, using various sounds to communicate with their herd and human companions.
Suitability for Families and Kids
Nigerian Dwarf goats are an excellent choice for families with children due to their manageable size and affectionate demeanor. Their gentle behavior and playful antics make them ideal companions for kids, and they generally tolerate handling well, making them a popular choice for 4-H projects and family farms.
They were initially shy and skittish around newcomers but have warmed up nicely, especially with consistent interaction. They were very nervous around children at first, but this can be improved by having friends and family crouch down with treats, which encourages the goats to approach and enjoy a snack. Despite their big horns, they've never been a problem. The goats are more afraid of people than vice versa. These goats are friendly and gentle with everyone, including children and elders.
Nigerian Dwarfs have never shown aggression. They actually get along well with cattle dogs, who have learned to help herd them into the barn.
Nigerian Dwarf Health and Care
This section outlines the health and care requirements for Nigerian Dwarf goats to ensure their well-being.
Lifespan
If a female is retire (no longer breeding) she will likely live a longer life. Similarly, wethers (neutered males) live 11 to 16 years on average.
Hardiness
Nigerian Dwarf goats are considered to be a versatile and hardy breed as they can thrive in nearly any climate. Goats can withstand temperatures down to 32 degrees (F). These goats managed a day when it was 0 degrees, and -22 degrees with wind chill, with a secure shelter with the essential features. Dramatic changes to temperature are very dangerous so providing coats is not recommended. The most important factor on cold days is that they have a sheltered area to get out of the elements and they are not wet.
Wet goats have a much harder time keeping warm in extreme weather.
Common Health Issues
Due to their hardiness and general resilience, Nigerian Dwarf goats are not ailed by any notable illnesses. The biggest health risk they are prone to, is like many goats they are social creatures and they can become lonely if they do not have at least one companion. If you are unable to keep your goats together, suggest adding other forms of stimulation and enrichment.
Nigerian Dwarf goats, like all breeds, can experience certain health issues. Common problems include:
- Parasites: Worms, lice, and mites can affect goats. Regular deworming and parasite management are essential.
- Respiratory Infections: Keep an eye out for coughing or nasal discharge, which may indicate respiratory issues.
- Coccidiosis: A parasitic disease in goats, particularly affecting young kids and stressed animals. It is caused by protozoan parasites that invade the intestinal lining, leading to symptoms such as diarrhea, weight loss, and in severe cases, death.
- Bloat: Bloat in goats is a serious condition where gas builds up in the rumen, often due to overeating or consuming rich pasture. If not treated promptly, it can become life-threatening, requiring immediate attention to relieve the pressure and prevent complications.
- Poisonous Plants: Goats are curious eaters, and consuming poisonous plants can lead to severe health issues. Common toxic plants include azaleas, oleander, and rhododendrons. Ingesting even a small amount can cause symptoms ranging from digestive distress to more serious conditions, so it's crucial to keep these plants out of their reach.
- Hoof Problems: Regular hoof trimming is necessary to prevent overgrowth and infections.
- Mastitis: A common issue in lactating does, characterized by swollen, painful udders.
Routine Care Requirements
To ensure your Nigerian Dwarf goats stay healthy and happy, consider these routine care practices:
- Regular Veterinary Checkups: Schedule annual or biannual checkups to monitor overall health and address any emerging issues. Finding a qualified goat vet can be quite challenging. It's not always easy to locate a veterinarian who specializes in goats, which is why it's beneficial to rely on a local goat owner network for advice and support.
- Hoof Trimming: Trim hooves every 6 to 8 weeks to prevent overgrowth and potential lameness.
- Vaccinations: Keep up with recommended vaccinations to protect against diseases such as CD&T (Clostridium perfringens and tetanus).
- Parasite Control: Implement a regular deworming schedule and monitor for signs of parasitic infestations. When goats start to look bloated, administer dewormer and usually see a significant improvement, especially if they've been grazing on short grass where parasites thrive.
- Clean Environment: Maintain a clean living space to reduce the risk of diseases and infections. As a rule of thumb, when it smells it's time for a change.
These practices will help keep your Nigerian Dwarf goats in good health and ensure their well-being.
Breeding and Reproduction
This section covers the breeding practices, kid care, and lactation aspects of Nigerian Dwarf goats.
Breeding Practices
Nigerian dwarfs are able to breed naturally and prolifically without any sort of human intervention. Nigerian Dwarf goats do have some variation in the age at which they reach sexual maturity. Males can become fertile as early as 2-3 months, though it's often recommended to wait until they are at least 6 months old before breeding to ensure they are physically mature enough. Females typically reach sexual maturity around 4-5 months but are usually not bred until they are closer to 8-9 months old to ensure they are fully developed.
Nigerian Dwarf goats can breed year-round, which is different from many other dairy goat breeds that typically go into heat every 21 days from late summer to early winter (August to January). Once pregnant, the gestation period for Nigerian Dwarf goats is about 145-155 days.
Unlike many larger goat breeds that are seasonal breeders, Nigerian Dwarf goats can breed year-round, offering greater flexibility for herd management. Proper breeding practices involve ensuring that both the buck and doe are healthy and free from disease. Careful selection of breeding pairs can help improve traits like milk production and temperament, making Nigerian Dwarfs a versatile choice for continuous milk production and breeding programs.
Kid Care and Development
After birth, kids need close monitoring to ensure they are nursing properly and gaining weight. Providing a clean, warm environment is essential for their development. Kids grow quickly and are typically weaned at around 8-12 weeks, though this can vary depending on the specific goals of the breeding program.
Milking and Lactation
How to Milk a Nigerian Dwarf Goat
Once the kids are born, a doe can produce 1 to 2 quarts (liters) of milk daily for up to 10 months. As a dairy breed, Nigerian Dwarf goats produce more milk than the kids require, making it ideal for homesteaders to use in various ways, such as making cheese, butter, or soap. The versatility and high demand for goat milk can turn it into a profitable income source.
Nigerian Dwarf goat milk is particularly prized for its high butterfat content, which gives it a naturally sweet flavor. This richness makes it perfect for producing creamy butter and flavorful cheeses. Additionally, goat milk contains less lactose than cow milk, making it a suitable alternative for those with lactose sensitivity.
Nigerian Dwarf Goat Housing and Environment
This section provides guidelines for housing and creating a suitable environment for Nigerian Dwarf goats.
Shelter and Space Requirements
Goats need enough space for shelter, grazing, enrichment, and a feeding station for supplementary food. The generally accepted guideline is that one acre can sustain 6 to 8 goats. By the same ratio, this means 3 to 4 goats on half an acre, and up to 12 to 16 goats for two acres.
Nigerian Dwarf goats are recommended to have 135 square feet of space to run and play each day for a happy and healthy goat. As far as shelter space, being in a colder climate and with smaller goats 30 square feet is adequate.
Feeding and Nutrition
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Diet Recommendations
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Supplement Needs
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Feeding Schedule
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Training and Handling
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Handling and Grooming
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Behavior Management
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Benefits of Owning Nigerian Dwarf Goats
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Milk Production
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Meat Production
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Companionship and Entertainment
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Land Management and Brush Clearing
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Are They Right for You?
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