Where did they come from?
The Nigerian Dwarf originated in West Africa, at least in part from the
West African Dwarf Goat. Small goats can still be found in Nigeria. The first goats
imported to America were all called "pygmies", but breeders began to notice that
there were two different "styles" of these small goats. The dairy-type goat
became the Nigerian Dwarf.
How are they different from pygmy
goats?
Pygmies are built more like meat goats. An ideal Pygmy has been described
as a "beer keg on legs." In contrast, the Nigerian has the slender, refined
build of a dairy goat. Pygmies also come in a limited range of colors- primarily agouti,
caramel and black. Nigerian Dwarves come in just about every color and pattern possible in
goats. Some even have blue eyes!
Who registers them?
There are two primary registries for the Nigerian; the Nigerian Dwarf Goat Association (NDGA) and the
American Goat Society (AGS). NDGA is
for Nigerians only, and its standards call for a smaller goat than AGS does.
Both registries offer shows and other recognition programs. AGS also registers
other breeds of goat. The largest dairy goat registry, the American Dairy Goat
Association (ADGA), plans to start registering Nigerians by 2005.
What are they used for?
The Nigerian is kept primarily as a gentle, intelligent and interesting
pet. Goats are the smartest of the ruminants, and Nigerians can entertain you for hours!
They will happily accompany you on walks or hang out while you do the yard work. They
enjoy petting and play, especially if bottle-raised.
Nigerians are also good dairy goats for families. They produce, on average, from 2-4 pounds of very rich milk per day.
Can they be trained?
They are very intelligent, and easily learn to come when called and walk
on a leash like a dog. They can be taught tricks with the use of food- a goat will do
anything for a good treat!
Don't they smell?
Wethers (neutered males) and does do not have any odor. Unneutered males-
bucks- do have a strong odor and are not recommended as pets.
Which sex makes a better pet?
Wethers and does both make excellent pets. Does come into heat every 21
days or so and may be noisy at this time. Obviously, if you want babies and/or milk, you
must have a doe! Please be aware that goats are social creatures, and it's cruel to have
just one. A lone goat will be miserable and noisy.
Is it legal to keep them in the city?
Please consult the regulations for your county. Some areas regard all
goats, even Nigerians, as livestock.
Can they be housebroken?
Unfortunately, no. But goat manure is great for your garden!