Pygmy Goats: Everything You Need to Know

Introduction to Pygmy Goats

• Pygmy goats: popular due to social nature and small size.
• Suitable option for beginners in goat ownership.

Pygmy Goat History

• Originated in Africa; descendants of Cameroon Dwarf goats.
• Introduced to Europe in zoos, then spread to England, Canada, USA.
• Established in the US in the 1950s.

Characteristics

• Small in size, hardy, adaptable, docile, and playful.
• Common color: agouti (mixture of light and dark hairs).
• Distinguishable from Dwarf goats by more compact bodies.

Size

• Males: 50-70 lbs, 16-23 inches tall.
• Females: 40-70 lbs, 16-22 inches tall.
• Smaller than standard goat breeds.

Lifespan

• Maturity at 8-12 months, lifespan of 10-15 years.

Breeding Pygmy Goats

• Reach sexual maturity at 4-5 months.
• Short-day breeders (heat induced by shorter days).
• Gestation: 145-153 days.
• Kids born at 2-4 pounds, weaned at 8-12 weeks.

Milk Production

• Produces 1-2 quarts of milk daily.
• Milk contains up to 11% butterfat.
• Shorter lactation periods (120-180 days).

Pygmy Goat Care

• Require proper housing with shelter from weather.
• Prone to hoof rot; need dry space to prevent it.

Housing

• Smaller size requires tighter fencing.
• Field fencing recommended.
• Need well-ventilated, dry floors in shelters.

Feeding

• Browsers; prefer leaves and shrubs.
• Require hay when pasture isn't available.
• Avoid alfalfa hay due to risk of kidney stones.
• Need clean water and proper minerals (e.g., copper, selenium).

Health Needs

• Watch for barber pole worms, check goats frequently for anemia (FAMACHA scoring).
• Maintain pasture height to prevent worm infestation.
• Regular hoof trimming and vaccinations necessary.

Uses of Pygmy Goats

• Land Cleanup: Effective in clearing overgrown land.
• Dairy: Despite small size, produce rich milk.

Raising Pygmy Goats as Pets

• Consider local regulations about owning goats.
• Best kept in herds; require social interaction.
• Not ideal as indoor pets due to size and behavior.
• Avoid toxic plants in their living environment.

Buying a Pygmy Goat

• Purchase from reputable sources.
• Check for health issues like anemia.

Cost

• Prices range from $75 to $500 depending on breeding and care.

Final Thoughts

• Pygmy goats are versatile and require less resources.
• Need proper care, nutrition, and housing.

Additional Resources

• National Pygmy Goat Association for breeder information.
• Free guides available for livestock planning and homesteading.