Nigerian Dwarfs vs. Pygmies
Although they have similar origins,
Nigerian Dwarfs and African Pygmies are separate and distinct breeds. Pygmies are bred to be "cobby" and heavy boned. Dwarfs
are bred to have the length of body and structure in proportion to their larger dairy goat counterparts. Pygmies are also
primarily "agouti," with black, silver and caramel being the most common colors. There is no color discrimination among Nigerian
Dwarfs under AGS (American Goat Society) registry. Under NDGA (Nigerian Dwarf Goat Association) registry policy, pygmy coloration and pattern is a minor fault.
Nigerian Dwarf Coloring
Color is one of the factors that
makes breeding Dwarfs so popular. You can never be sure what color the babies will be until they are born; even then
you can't be sure because many times their color will change. Main color families are black, chocolate and gold with virtually
every color combination imaginable being produced. Dwarfs can be Dalmatian spotted, pinto-patterned, tri-colored or just classy
shades of solid jet black, white, chocolate or gold. Buckskin patterns are also popular, described by contrasting facial stripes,
a "cape" around the shoulders with coordinating leg markings. Brown eyes are most common; however, dwarfs with china blue
eyes are becoming increasingly available.
Nigerian Dwarf Breed Standards
A Nigerian Dwarf goat's conformation
is similar to that of the larger dairy goat breeds. The parts of the body are in balanced proportion. The nose is straight,
although there may be a small break or stop at the level of the eyes. The ears are upright. The coat is soft with short
to medium hair. Any color or combination of colors is acceptable. The AGS breed standard sets the maximum height for does
at 22.4" with bucks up to 23.6". NDGA maximum heights for does and bucks is 21" and 23", respectively. There is no minimum
height; although NDGA specifies an "ideal" height between 17" and 19" for does and 18" to 20" for bucks. Animals are disqualified
from the show ring for being oversized for the breed standard and/or having a curly coat, roman nose, pendulous ears or evidence
of myatonia (this is associated with fainting goats.)
Nigerian Dwarf Temperament
Dwarf goats are gentle and lovable.
Their calm, even temperament and engaging personalities make them suitable companions for all, including children, the disabled
and the elderly. Even breeding bucks are handled easily. Because of their gentle temperaments, Nigerian Dwarfs make wonderful
pets and great animal projects for children and young adults in FFA and 4H. Breeders of other types of goats find that their
Dwarfs blend in with the rest of their herd and do not need special quarters; just adequate fencing to contain them because
of their small size. Many Nigerian Dwarf goats share pastures peacefully with other livestock such as cattle, horses, llamas,
and donkeys.
Nigerian Dwarf Housing
For one to just a few goats, many owners
find that an oversized dog house or two does the job. For a few to several goats, a small barn or loafing shed can be used
depending on the climate. Good ventilation and dry quarters is important for healthful Nigerian Dwarf care. Many owners find
that providing a few "toys" for their goats provides them with hours of caprine entertainment. Tree stumps, rocks or empty
cable spools are great for "king of the mountain" games and jumping.
Nigerian Dwarf Breeding
Dwarf goats breed year round. Many
breeders breed their does three times in two years, giving the doe at least a six month break. Of course, this is a personal
choice for each breeder. For the most part, Nigerian Dwarfs are a hardy breed with few kidding problems. New babies average
about 2 lbs. at birth but grow quickly. Does can be bred at 7- 8 months of age if they have reached a good size. Some breeders
prefer to wait until they are at least 1 year or older. Dwarf does can have several kids at a time, 3 and 4 being common and
sometimes even 5! Dwarfs are generally good mothers able to take care of their babies should you leave them to do the raising
of the kids. They can also provide a surprising amount of milk for their size if you decide you want your own delicious goat
milk. Bucks are able to be used for service as young as 3 months of age and easily by the time they are 7 or 8 months old.
Because they can be fertile at such a young age, breeders are advised to wean does and bucks separately. Dwarf bucks are vigorous
breeders but are gentle enough to be used for hand breeding or pasture breeding. Both methods are used successfully.
