Nubian
The appeal of Nubian goats lies in their exceptional ability to produce high-butterfat milk, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a creamy and rich dairy source. In fact, Nubian milk is one of the easiest to strain for butter, with an average butterfat content that outshines most other breeds, excluding the Nigerian Dwarf. For those new to goat milk, the mild and creamy flavor of Nubian milk makes it more palatable compared to other breeds.
As a dual-purpose goat, Nubians are impressive, capable of producing substantial amounts of meat and up to about a gallon of milk per day. However, it’s essential to note that these goats can grow quite large, reaching weights of up to 250 lbs. Moreover, their loud nature is another distinguishing characteristic – they’re known to bellow when seeking food or simply due to boredom. If you’re not prepared to accommodate the demands of such vocal goats, Nubians might not be the best fit.
Nonetheless, for those who value the benefits of having a goat for milk production and appreciate the versatility of goat’s milk, Nubian breed is certainly worth considering.
Saanen
Sanaan goats are renowned for their striking appearance and tranquil demeanor. Characterized by their snowy-white coats, these gentle creatures boast sweet, calm personalities and possess robust health and cold-hardiness. As one of the highest-producing dairy goat breeds, a single Sanaan goat can yield up to 3 gallons of milk daily, making them an attractive option for those seeking a reliable source of this nutritious dairy product.
While Sanaans produce copious amounts of milk, their dairy output is distinguished by its relatively low butterfat content. Moreover, the flavor profile of Sanaan milk is often described as robust and goaty, potentially making it challenging for newcomers to goat milk to fully appreciate its unique character.
In terms of environmental tolerance, Sanaans are less suited to hot climates than many other breeds.
They thrive in cool weather conditions and tend not to bulk up like some meat- and dual-purpose goats do. Instead, they typically top out at around 160 pounds, with a slender yet elegant build.
For those seeking the ultimate meat-and-milk breed, Sanaans may not be the most suitable choice.
Alpine
The Alpine goat’s origin story begins in the majestic Alps, where their name stems from. Characterized by playful, friendly, and curious nature, these hardy goats are a sight to behold with their striking appearance. Their adaptability makes them an excellent fit for family homesteads, as they’re enjoyable for children to handle and can thrive on forage alone. At maturity, Alpines typically weigh in at a minimum of 160 pounds, often exceeding 250 pounds.
Their impressive milk production amounts to around one to one-and-a-half gallons daily. As a dual-purpose breed, Alpines excel in providing both quality milk and companionship. Notably, they’re also quiet, with a softer ‘maaa’ than many other breeds, making their gentle nature even more endearing.
For homesteads seeking a dual-purpose goat, the Alpine is an ideal choice; however, it’s worth noting that their milk has a distinctively goaty flavor, which may be a challenge for those not fond of goat’s milk to fully appreciate the bounty they bring.
Oberhasli
Hailing from Switzerland, the Oberhasli breed has become a prominent force in the United States dairy goat scene. These elegant brown and black goats are characterized by their slender build, friendly demeanor, and endearing personalities. Weighing in at approximately 120-150 pounds, they produce around one and a half gallons of moderate butterfat milk daily. Notably, Oberhasli goats are well-suited for cold climates but may encounter challenges in extreme heat.
While they don’t possess the meaty quality required for dual-purpose purposes, their milk is easily transitioned to by those accustomed or not to goat’s milk. One notable advantage of this breed is their propensity to remain within paddocks, minimizing the likelihood of fence damage. Their sweet and gentle nature further reduces the likelihood of destructive behavior.
American Lamancha
The American LaMancha breed stands out from the crowd with their distinctive ‘gopher ears’, which set them apart from other goat breeds. While they may not be everyone’s cup of tea due to their unique head shape, they’re a sweet-tempered breed that produces high-quality milk with a butterfat content often rivaling Nubians at 4%. When it comes to meat production, LaManchas are also well-suited for small-scale farming.
They top out at around 130-160 pounds and have a compact build, making them ideal for smaller properties. What truly sets LaManchas apart is their ability to consistently produce milk for up to two years without needing to be bred again. Additionally, they’re remarkably resilient in challenging conditions, making them an excellent choice for homesteads with tough terrain or limited access to breeding stock.
Golden Guernsey
While the Saanen goat may not be available for importation into the US due to certain regulations, there are still some breeding herds and enthusiasts who obtain their genetics through semen imports or hybridization. One of the notable characteristics of this breed is its remarkable milk production capacity, with does able to yield up to six pints per day. The Saanen goat is also renowned for its exceptionally friendly and docile nature, making it a joy to be around.
Males can grow up to 155 pounds, which while smaller than some other milk breeds, is still quite impressive. Furthermore, their lovely golden coats with long hair add to their endearing charm.
Toggenburg
The Toggenburg goat breed has its roots in Switzerland, where it emerged as a smaller yet robust alternative to other Alpine breeds. Its compact size makes it an ideal choice for smaller homesteads, where space is limited. Standing at a maximum of 150 pounds, Toggenburgs are characterized by their sturdy build and short stature, which allows them to thrive in cold weather conditions. As a dual-purpose goat, they excel in both milk production and meat quality.
The distinctive flavor of Toggenburg milk sets it apart from other breeds, with its low butterfat content presenting some unique challenges for cheese makers. However, the rich taste and subtle nuances of this milk make it an attractive option for those willing to invest the time and effort required to work with it. Toggenburgs flourish in environments characterized by ample forage, a cooler climate, and a small, harmonious herd structure, where they can thrive under the right conditions.
Peacock
The origins of this breed remain shrouded in mystery, with no clear evidence tracing its ancestry. However, their physical characteristics bear striking resemblance to those of other mountain goat breeds from Switzerland. Their resilience and ability to thrive on forage alone are testament to their hardiness. While they share many traits with other Swiss breeds, it’s their unique color patterns that set them apart.
Typically, they display a striking black and white coat, absent of any other colors. Like their Swiss counterparts, they are prolific milk producers, yielding around 2 gallons per day. In terms of size, they can reach up to 200 pounds, making them a notable presence.
Verata
The Verata breed of goat is a rare but valuable find for homesteaders in warmer climates. While many of the goat breeds listed here are adapted to cold, mountainous regions and struggle in hot weather, Veratas thrive in temperate temperatures. With their sturdy build, twisted horns, and robust weight range of 150-175 pounds, these hardy goats are a delight to handle. Unfortunately, they can be difficult to track down in the US, as they remain more common in Spain.
However, for those willing to put in the effort, Verata goats offer a unique opportunity for dual-purpose farming.
Beetal
In the heartland of Punjab, Pakistan, these goats hold a revered position. Their multifaceted utility has made them a popular choice among farmers and ranchers alike. Not only do they yield copious amounts of high-quality milk, but they also thrive in warmer climates, making them an ideal selection for those seeking to establish a dairy operation. Beyond their impressive milk production, these goats are also prized for their meat quality.
For individuals looking to diversify their livestock portfolio or establish a dual-purpose breeding program, locating a reputable breeder could prove a valuable investment. Furthermore, the hides of these goats are highly sought after by artisans and craftsmen, making them an attractive choice for those interested in raising a goat specifically for leather production.
Kamori
In Pakistan, the Chinkara goat is a prized breed, renowned for its distinctive physical characteristics and impressive milk production capabilities. While acquiring one can be challenging, enthusiasts are willing to invest in these goats due to their exceptional qualities. Characterized by long ears and a sturdy build, they stand tall and possess remarkable hardiness. For those unwilling or unable to invest in purebred Chinkaras, crossbreeding with other goat breeds is an alternative option.
Kamoris, for instance, can be bred with other varieties to create hybrid offspring that are more affordable. These goats have the potential to reach 130 pounds in weight and are notable for their remarkable milk production. They can yield up to 50 ounces per day, with the milk boasting a smooth, subtly goat-like flavor.
Valais
If you’re keen on conserving a magnificent but endangered breed of goat, the Valais is an excellent choice. These captivating animals are sure to turn heads with their unique appearance, earning them the nickname ‘blackneck goats.’ A striking half-and-half effect is achieved through their white bodies and black forelegs, necks, and heads.
Originally developed as dual-purpose meat and milk goats, Valais have since transitioned primarily to meat and pelt production.
Their stunning coats do yield beautiful pelts, but they still offer an abundance of creamy, sweet milk.
Valais goats are relatively compact, ranging from 100 to 150 pounds in weight. If you’re interested in a goat that can provide a trifecta of fiber, meat, and milk, the Valais is an excellent addition to your homestead.
Boer
As I gazed at my lovely Boer goat, it was hard not to be charmed by her sweet demeanor. This breed, which translates to ‘farmer goat,’ has earned a special place in my heart due to the pleasant experiences I’ve had with them. While primarily raised for meat, Boers can also serve as a dual-purpose breed if you don’t require a high-volume milk producer. In fact, one of my does provides us with a small yet delicious daily milk supply, albeit requiring a bit more effort due to her stocky build.
As an added bonus, Boers are social and calm, making them an excellent fit for small family farms like mine. Interestingly, males can reach impressive weights of over 300 pounds, while females typically top out at around 225. What’s more, young Boers can reach market weight (50-100 pounds) by just five months old, making them a highly sought-after breed in the goat farming community.
Kiko
In the realm of livestock, one breed stands out for its remarkable resilience and gentle nature – the Kiko goat. Originating from New Zealand as a cross between domesticated meat goats and wild goats, this robust breed boasts an impressive ability to withstand harsh weather conditions and predator encounters, thanks to their shaggy coats. This hardiness is just one aspect of what makes Kikos an attractive choice for farmers and animal enthusiasts alike.
While their rugged exterior may seem intimidating, Kiko goats are surprisingly sweet-tempered and highly trainable, making them ideal companions or even suitable for goat carts. Adult Kikos can reach a substantial 300 pounds in weight, with most individuals ranging from 170 to 240 pounds.
What’s more, when raised for meat production, Kiko goats have the remarkable ability to reach market weight in under five months – an impressive feat that makes them an attractive option for those looking to establish a successful and efficient livestock operation.
Fainting Goat
On many homesteads, myotonic goats – also known as Tennessee fainting goats – bring a unique charm. These meat goats have the peculiar habit of falling over when startled or surprised. While it may be an unexpected sight at first, many find their antics entertaining. Importantly, this ‘fainting’ behavior is harmless to the goats themselves, often occurring during playful moments or when they’re being fed excessively.
As a smaller breed, myotonic goats typically don’t exceed 170 pounds in weight, but they are known for their stocky build and ability to gain weight well.
Spanish
While Spanish goats were once a preferred choice for meat production, their role has evolved over time. Today, they’re primarily utilized for brush clearing, earning them the nickname ‘brush goat’ due to their exceptional ability in this regard. In addition to providing meat, these versatile goats can offer a dual benefit for landowners. They also thrive in hot climates and are known for their calm demeanor, making them a popular choice for farms in the American South.
British Alpine
In the 19th century, British alpine goats were developed from Toggenburgs, sharing many physical characteristics. These robust animals can weigh up to 135 pounds, with striking black and white coats. While they are well-suited for meat production, their true value lies in their impressive milk output. Not only do they produce copious amounts of milk, but they also boast an extended lactation period, continuing to supply milk even during colder months.
Black Bengal
Black Bengal goats are undeniably captivating creatures, boasting a solid black coat and endearing floppy ears. While less prevalent in Western regions, their unique charm is undeniable. One of the notable characteristics of Black Bengals is their high reproductive rate – under optimal management, they can produce four kids per year. As meat goats, they excel, although their milk production is somewhat limited.
Interestingly, bucks can reach up to 70 pounds in weight, while does remain significantly smaller.
Hejazi
The Nubian goat breed, native to Arabia, stands out due to its stocky build, making it an excellent choice for quality meat production. What sets this breed apart is its dwarf nature, similar to the Syrian Mountain goat, but more accessible for some keepers. At around 100 pounds, they boast unique characteristics, including exceptionally long ears that add to their distinctiveness.
Russian White Dairy
The Nubian goat breed, a result of crossing Saanen and Toggenburg breeds, shares many physical characteristics with its parent lines. Its distinctive features include long, slender necks and heads, as well as a white coat covered in short, coarse hair. Both males and females can sport horns, adding to the breed’s unique appeal. Although relatively uncommon, Nubian goats possess remarkable qualities.
At maturity, they can reach weights of up to 165 pounds, making them sturdy companions for any farm or homestead. Furthermore, female Nubians are renowned for their impressive milk production capabilities, yielding a staggering 150 gallons per year. The milk itself is rich and high in fat content, reaching levels of up to 5.3%.
Somali
Somali goats, also known as Galla, thrive in scorching hot and arid environments. As a primary meat breed, they come in two distinct types: short-eared and long-eared. Characterized by their lengthy legs and robust physiques, these animals can weigh anywhere from 55 to 120 pounds. Their impressive physical attributes enable them to withstand harsh conditions, making them an attractive option for farmers seeking to raise a hardy and productive breed.
Moreover, does (female goats) are remarkable for their ability to continue producing milk even when water and food are scarce. Additionally, they’re known for being friendly and easy to handle, making them an excellent choice for novice goat keepers. It’s worth noting that a single doe can produce up to a pint of milk per day, making them an attractive option for those seeking a reliable source of fresh milk.
Barbari
The Beetal goat breed is a captivating sight, native to Pakistan and India. Its compact size sets it apart from other breeds, with males reaching approximately 85 pounds and females being slightly smaller. This dual-purpose breed boasts an impressive milk yield of around 32 ounces daily, making it a valuable asset for any farm or homestead. Additionally, the meat quality is exceptional, with a dressed nine-month-old goat weighing in at about 27 pounds.
Despite their relative rarity, these goats are well worth the search.
Angora
The Angora goat breed is a delight to behold, with its plush mohair coat and endearing personality. Native to Turkey, this fiber goat’s physical appearance is reminiscent of a giant stuffed animal come to life. Weighing between 100-200 pounds, these gentle creatures boast crimpy, curly locks that are both long and soft to the touch.
While their temperament mirrors their adorable looks – think docile and laid-back – Angoras’ vulnerability to predators means they require careful protection from harm. A trusty livestock guardian can be a lifesaver for these sweet-natured goats. It’s worth noting that Angoras aren’t prolific milk producers, making milking less worthwhile.
Their meat, however, is renowned in certain regions of the world; while they don’t bulk up like other meat goats, their unique characteristics make them an occasional treat.
Pygora
Pygmy goat enthusiasts, rejoice! The Pygora breed is a delightful treat for those who adore small but mighty creatures. This pint-sized wonder is the result of crossing Angoras and pygmy goats, yielding a charming miniature version of its larger counterparts. Like its full-size brethren, the Pygora produces exquisite mohair fibers, albeit in a more compact package.
Weighing in at around 60-80 pounds, these tiny titans are the perfect choice for those seeking to raise fiber goats without sacrificing space.
Cashmere
While the term ‘Cashmere goat’ encompasses a broad range of breeds, it refers specifically to any goat that produces an abundance of cashmere wool. In reality, all goats possess some amount of this soft undercoat, but Cashmere goats are distinguished by their remarkable capacity for producing large quantities of high-quality cashmere fiber.
The North American Cashmere (NAC) breed is one of the most prevalent in the United States, and it’s a dual-purpose goat that excels at both meat production and fiber generation. NAC goats may not gain weight as rapidly as some purebred meat breeds, but they compensate with their impressive milking abilities. Furthermore, these animals are renowned for producing rich, creamy milk – making them an attractive option for farmers seeking to optimize their dairy operations.
Nigora
The Nigora goat boasts an irresistible charm, courtesy of its diminutive size and plush coat. This unique characteristic makes it an excellent choice for those seeking high-quality fiber. Moreover, the Nigora’s dual-purpose nature means it excels in both milk production and fleece quality.
As a cross between a Mohair and Nigerian dwarf goat, the Nigora inherits the impressive milk output of its larger counterpart.
The resulting fiber is remarkable for its softness, silkiness, and exceptional quality.
Nigerian Dwarf
I’m a proud Nigerian Dwarf goat owner, and my experience with these lovable creatures is nothing short of delightful. While they may not always be agreeable, their friendly nature makes them a joy to have around. Many homesteaders share my enthusiasm for these tiny goats, which are renowned for their charming personalities and compact size. At an average weight of 40-60 pounds, Nigerian Dwarfs make excellent neighborhood pets, requiring minimal space and care.
When it comes to milk production, Nigerian Dwarf goats truly stand out. Their rich, creamy milk boasts a butterfat content of 6-10%, making it the perfect choice for those seeking exceptional flavor. What’s more, these hardy goats can thrive in even small spaces, producing up to 2 quarts of milk daily – an impressive feat given their diminutive size.
Pygmy
Pygmy goats are another beloved miniature breed that I also have the pleasure of raising. Often considered a meat breed due to their robust build, they surprisingly make for wonderful pets as well. Their compact size means they don’t require as much space as full-sized goats, making them an ideal choice for those with smaller properties.
It’s impossible not to be charmed by their adorable faces! Males typically top out at around 85 pounds, while females are about 10 pounds lighter.
Standing under two feet tall, they’re impressively stocky.
But that’s not all – these hardy and adaptable creatures can produce up to two quarts of milk per day for over half the year, boasting a butterfat content of 4.5%. They’re truly remarkable in many ways.
Mini-Cross
Many enthusiasts of miniature goat breeds choose to cross them with one another, yielding adorable, compact animals that excel at dual purposes. This practice can be particularly appealing for those with limited space, as mini-crosses are well-suited for smaller areas and can provide a reliable source of meat, milk, and even fiber. However, it’s essential to acknowledge that these crosses typically cannot be registered or shown due to their mixed heritage.
The outcome size is also inherently uncertain, making each individual unique in terms of its final dimensions.
Kinder
Meet the Pygmy-Nubian goat, a miniature dairy goat that packs a big punch. This unique breed, first developed by Pat Showalter on Zederkamm Farm in Snohomish, Washington back in 1985, combines the best of both worlds – it’s a cross between a pygmy and a Nubian goat. The result is a friendly, curious, and prolific dairy goat that can also provide meat. Its milk is renowned for its sweetness and creaminess, with less of that distinctive ‘goaty’ flavor found in other breeds.
In fact, these goats are capable of producing up to a gallon of milk per day, with an impressive 6% fat content. The females typically weigh around 125 pounds, while males reach up to 150 pounds at maturity, and they can dress out at an astonishing 60%, higher than the average for most goat breeds.
Rangeland
Rangeland goats are renowned for their resilience in extreme temperatures and ability to thrive during periods of drought, a trait that sets them apart from other breeds. Their impressive breeding capabilities are another notable characteristic, with individual females capable of producing up to 10 quarts of high-quality milk daily. Weighing up to 150 pounds each, these goats have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their hardiness, self-sufficiency, and versatility.
In fact, they’re known to be so adaptable that they’ll even consume tree bark if no other sustenance is available. Furthermore, rangeland goats can also be utilized for wool production, making them a valuable asset for farmers looking to diversify their operations. The milk produced by these goats boasts a distinct ‘goaty’ flavor and approximately 5.5% milkfat content.
