Life Out In The Country

building a self sufficient life

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Popular Goat Breeds

Meat Type Goats

 

 

Boer

The Boer goat is the most popular meat goat breed. Originating from South Africa.  Known for its fast growth rate compared to other goat breeds.  It’s signature red head and white body give it a noticeable recognizable look. Mature does usual range from 175-225 lbs.  Mature bucks range from 200-350 lbs.

 

Tennessee Fainting Goat

Known as “fainting goats” for the stiff leg actions of the goats causing them to fall over when startled.  Most range from 60-175 lbs. in size.

 

Kiko Goat

Kiko goats originated in New Zealand.  Does range in size from 100-225 lbs.  Mature Bucks range in size from 250-300 lbs.

 

Spanish Goats

One of the oldest domesticated breeds.  Brought to America from Spain.  Spanish goats are commonly known as “scrub” and “brush” goats.  They can range up to 200 lbs in size.

 

 

 

Dairy Type Goats

 

 

Nubian

Nubians are a popular dairy goat.  Known for the high butterfat content of their milk.   Mature goats range from 130-175 lbs. in size.

 

Saanen

The most popular dairy goats for commercial dairies due to the amount of milk they produce.  Originating in Switzerland.  Mature animals range in size from 150-200 lbs. White or Cream in color.

 

Oberhasli

Dairy type goats that are also used as pack goats.  Always brown in color.  Range in size from 100-150 lbs. in size.

 

Alpine

Originating from the French Alps. Alpine goats are prized for their high milk output with a lower fat content than many others.  Range in size from 135-170 lbs.

 

Toggenburg

Originally from Switzerland.  Light brown in color.  Range in size from 120-150 lbs. in size.

 

Lamancha

Developed in the United States.  Lamancha’s are virtually earless.  Mature animals range in size from 130-160 lbs.

 

Dwarf Breeds

Nigerian Dwarf

Used mainly as pets for their small size.  Always under 21” in height.  Originated in West Africa.

 

Pygmy Goats

Used as companion animals and as pets.  Rarely over 23” in height.  Range in size from 50-90 lbs. Originally from Africa.  Comes in various colors.

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