Nigerian Dwarf Goat Basics
Origins
Nigerian Dwarf goats are a miniature goat breed originating from West Africa. Nigerian dwarfs are dairy goats, meaning they produce milk. America's first Nigerian Dwarfs were brought over as pets in zoos. Today's Nigerian Dwarfs, however, have been bred with increasing milk capacity and are now a recognized dairy breed by the US Department of Agriculture. Because Nigerian Dwarfs have been recognized as a livestock dairy breed, they are eligible as FFA and 4H project animals.
Temperament
Nigerian Dwarfs are loveable, curious, and gentle. They are very even-tempered so they make great animals for kids and even the elderly. Nigerian Dwarfs have even been used as therapy animals. Nigerian Dwarfs goats are easy keepers and tend to be hearty animals. They do very well sharing pasture with other animals as well.
Uses
Nigerian Dwarf goats are dairy animals. They have been bred to produce increasing amounts of milk. Well-bred Nigerian Dwarfs produce a good amount of milk for a family. The milk is sweet and not at all goaty. Nigerian Dwarf milk have the highest butterfat content of all milks. Nigerian Dwarfs are also browsers. They do a great job of clearing brush and weeds. Nigerian Dwarfs make wonderful pets, petting zoo animals, and therapy animals due to their sweet temperaments.
Accomodations
Goats need a draft-free shelter away from the elements. It does not have to be fancy; a large dog house works well. Ventilation is important for health. Fencing is also important as some goats can be escape artists. A fence where a goat cannot go under or jump over helps to keep them safe from predators such as dogs. Many goat owners like to provide toys for their goats to play on. We provide stumps and build structures for them to climb on. Pinterest has a lot of great ideas.
Feeding
Goats are browsers meaning they like to eat bushes, brush, and trees more than they like to eat grass. Goats eat hay, grain and mineral. The type and amount of food GREATLY depends on if you are feeding does, pregnant does, does in milk, bucks, or wethers. All goats need plenty of fresh clean water at all times. Be sure to consult with us about what is best to feed your goat.
Buddy System
Goats are herd animals. Therefore, they must have another goat buddy. It does not matter if they will live in your house, or if you have lots of kids to play with them. It does not matter if you own horses or pigs. A goat needs another goat as company and to thrive and be healthy. Reputable breeders, including ourselves, will not sell a single goat to a home without another goat. Therefore, we typically sell our goats in pairs.
Why buy from 6E Farmstead?
The health and wellness of our animals is of utmost priority to us. When I started with goats, no one told me how to care for them. I made mistakes in the beginning and I learned a lot and cried a lot. When I decided to breed goats, I vowed that I would not do the same to my goats or my customers. Therefore, when you purchase a goat from 6E Farmstead, we schedule a consult with you. You will come out to the farm to pick up your baby and I will give you a lesson on how to care for your new goat. You will have plenty of time to ask questions while you are here. Should you purchase a bottle-baby, I will show you how to bottle-feed here. I will also send you home with our in depth care packet and will be available to answer your questions once they arise.