About the breed

A miniature goat of West African origin, the Nigerian Dwarf is small and can have a variety of colorful markings. Because of their small size, they require less space than other dairy goat breeds, and their gentle and friendly personalities make them good companion pets. They are also easy to handle, even for small children. The U.S. Department of Agriculture has also recognized the Nigerian Dwarf goat as a livestock dairy goat, which makes them eligible for youth 4H or FFA projects.

Nigerian Dwarf goats are gentle, lovable, and playful. Their calm, even temperament, and engaging personalities make them suitable companions for pretty much anyone. Breeders of other types of goats find their Nigerian Dwarfs blend in with the rest of their herd and do not require special quarters, and they can share pastures peacefully with other livestock such as cattle, horses, llamas, and donkeys. In fact, they will often improve a pasture by removing bramble undergrowth (including weeds), and even poison ivy that other livestock won’t eat.

Nigerian Dwarf does are at least 17 inches tall and may be no taller than 22.5 inches. Bucks are also at least 17 inches tall and no taller than 23.5 inches. While there is no weight requirement, 75 pounds is an average weight. Many color combinations are common, the ears are of medium length and erect, and the bridge of the nose is either straight or dished. The hair is short. The Nigerian Dwarf was developed in the United States and is the only miniature dairy goat breed registered by the American Dairy Goat Association. Although a small goat, the Nigerian Dwarf doe produces a proportionate quantity of milk with high butterfat content.

Pure-bred certification

All members of our herd are pure-bred and all does are registered. As ADGA members, we participate in the Dairy Herd Improvement Registry (DHIR) program and in Linear Appraisal.