Nigerian Dwarf Goats

Nigerian Dwarf Goats

Physical Description:

The Nigerian dwarf is a miniature goat domesticated as a dairy goat and can be found throughout the world.

 

Size:

As the name implies, these are small goats with a short, straight coat in a wide variety of black, white, brown, red and gold color patterns. Average adult weight is 40 to 60 pounds, length is 24 to 30 inches, and height is 16 to 20 inches (males can stand up to 23 inches).

 

Native Habitat:

Originally, Nigerian Dwarf Goats were found in Western Africa. Now they can be found worldwide.

 

Lifespan:

The average lifespan of Nigerian Dwarf is between 15 to 20 years.

 

Communication:

They will vocalize in a variety of ways, including different volumes and pitches of bleating, scent communication, and communication through body language.

 

Food/Eating Habits:

Aside from pasture or bush to browse, the major component of their diet should be hay. They require fresh clean water, a good quality hay, a 2:1 dairy mineral, and loose salt.

 

Sleep Habits:

It really doesn't matter if the goat is getting ready to lie in the grass, on a shelf, in the dirt, or in fluffy bedding. Goats often paw their sleeping area before they lay down.  Mostly likely, this is an instinct that was ingrained in them thousands of years ago. Perhaps they are digging down to get to the cool sand. 

 

Social Structure:

The Nigerian Dwarf Goat typically lives in a herd led by an older female. They are very sweet, very personable, and have close relations with their owners.

 

Reproduction And Development:

Tunis ewes are prolific breeders, often producing twins or triplets, which enhances flock expansion and genetic diversity. Most sheep are seasonal breeders, meaning ewes only cycle