Dwarf Goat

Species profile - Dwarf Goat

The Dwarf Goat is not a breed in itself, but a goat that has adapted to particularly difficult and harsh conditions. They remained smaller and can thus cope with very meagre conditions (e.g. West African Dwarf Goat, which probably came to Africa via Egypt and Asia) and has been bred mainly as a meat goat.

Dwarf Goats are extremely easy-feeding and frugal and thus particularly suitable for landscape management. Especially at the border of forests and on poorly cultivable areas, they keep the meadows free of scrub and protect - just like sheep - flora and fauna as well as the habitats of small animals and birds. However, they are very selective and only eat the best grasses. Therefore, keeping them together with sheep makes perfect sense. Dwarf goats are very precocious (at 4 - 5 months for females) and therefore very fertile. They can have offspring twice a year, and twins are not uncommon.

Key data

• Status: commonly known goat genus
• Size: 40 - 45 cm (female), 45 - 50 cm (male)
• Weight: 20 - 25 kg (female), 25 - 30 kg (male)
• Shearing: not necessary, independent shedding
• Oestrus cycle: aseasonal
• Suitability: extensive husbandry