| What Are Miniature Dairy Goats? |
| A Miniature Dairy Goat was originally achieved by crossing registered standard dairy goats to registered Nigerian Dwarf stock for a 1st generation cross. The generations are then crossed back and forth until 3rd generation status is achieved; that with breed character similar to the standars, and an ability to reproduce itself, makes the goat elegible for permanent registry books. Three different registries have been currently set up to register both purebreds (when such status has been attained) and experimentals and different stages of development and generations. The registries keep track of blood percentages within the developing kids, so the breeders can reflect upon which breed, the standard or Nigerian, is giving the size and traits they want. The miniature dairy goat is "IDEALLY" supposed to be a mid-sized goat, standing between 21-27" on does and 22-30" on bucks with exact heights varying with the different breed registries. Most does weigh around 80-90lbs. at maturity, and at least my Mini-Nubians are milking about 5-6lbs (5-6 pints) of milk daily as two year olds. *Absolutely no Pygmy blood is allowed. Why Miniature Dairy Goats? *They are more hardy against disease and have less birthing problems than standards. *Smaller goats are easier for both adults and children to handle and milk. *People are living on smaller acreages and have less room for large goats. Two Mini-dairy goats can often be kept in the same space as one standard. *People would like a smaller feed bill for their goats while maintianing a satisfactory output of milk. These smaller goats are showing an ability to produce 2/3 the milk on 1/3-1/2 the feed. *One Mini can supply enough milk for a family of four. *There is a demand in the pet market for these smaller animals. *There is starting to be a demand in the 4-H market. *MOST IMPORTANT!--THEY WILL WIN YOUR HEART!!!! |
 |
 |
 |
|
|
 |