What are pygmy goats and Nigerian Dwarf goats? Pygmy goats and Nigerian Dwarf goats are both breeds of domestic goats that are commonly kept as pets or for dairy production.
Why is it important to understand the differences? When considering adding a pygmy or Nigerian Dwarf goat to your farm or family, it is important to understand the key differences between the two breeds in order to choose the one that best suits your needs and lifestyle.
Size
- How do pygmy and Nigerian Dwarf goats differ in size? Pygmy goats are generally larger than Nigerian Dwarf goats, with an average height of 16-23 inches at the shoulder, while Nigerian Dwarf goats typically reach a height of 17-19 inches at the shoulder.
Pygmy Goat | Photo by: Pete Markham - What are the implications of size? Size can be an important consideration when choosing a breed, as it can affect the amount of space and resources needed to house and care for the goat.
Personality
- How do pygmy and Nigerian Dwarf goats differ in personality? Pygmy goats are known for their friendly and playful personalities, while Nigerian Dwarf goats are known for their friendly, intelligent and playful personalities.
- What are the implications of personality? Personality can be an important consideration when choosing a breed, as it can affect the amount of interaction and training required for the goat.
Milk Production
- How do pygmy and Nigerian Dwarf goats differ in milk production? Nigerian Dwarf goats are known for their high milk production and are often used for dairy production, while pygmy goats have lower milk production.
- What are the implications of milk production? Milk production can be an important consideration when choosing a breed, as it can affect the amount of resources needed for the goat, and if you are planning on milking your goat or not.
In summary, pygmy and Nigerian Dwarf goats are both great options as pets or for dairy production. However, there are significant differences between the two breeds in terms of size, personality, and milk production. By understanding these differences, you can choose the breed that best suits your needs and lifestyle. Whether you’re looking for a small, friendly companion or a high-milk producing dairy goat, either of these breeds can make a great addition to your farm or family.
Sarah Lane has been a farm wife since 2010 and mother of two children for nearly as long. She and her husband, Jonathan, live on a small farm in Texas where they raise dairy goats and beef cattle as well as chickens for eggs and meat. In addition to growing their own hay, straw and garden produce, the Lane family works with other nearby farms to source organic grain from which they make artisan bread sold at local farmer’s market.