Hobbies And Interests
The Nigerian Dwarf Goat Breed Standard
To meet the breed standard, the mature male Nigerian dwarf goat can be no more than 23.5 inches tall at the top of the shoulder, or withers. The mature female can be no more than 22.5 inches tall at the withers. The Nigerian can be solid black, brown, gold, or white, have any color combination and any markings. It is one of the few dairy goats that occasionally has blue eyes. Either brown or blue eyes are acceptable in the breed standard, with no preference being given to one or the other. Faces can be either dish-shaped or straight. The body proportions of the Nigerian can mimic the balanced proportion of some larger Swiss dairy goats. The ears are of medium length and erect. The coat is straight and medium in length.
Origins and Development
The Nigerian dwarf goat developed in western Africa and is possibly a descendant of the West African dwarf, or WAD goat, which was used as source of milk and meat. In the U.S., zoos which imported the WAD goats began selling them to breeders who soon distinguished two different types of dwarf in the animals. One was the Pygmy, and the other was an animal closer in conformation to today's Nigerian dwarf.
Small and Thrifty
Because of its diminutive size, the Nigerian dwarf is easily kept in small spaces, requires less food than larger breeds, and is handled more easily. They are known to be hardy, resistant to disease and to be highly social animals. They are good, not only as agricultural animals, but also as pets, with friendly dispositions. Being herd animals, they do best if they have another animal as a companion.
Other Organizations
Two other organizations are specifically dedicated to promoting the Nigerian dwarf goat, the Nigerian Dwarf Goat Association, or NDGA, and the American Nigerian Dwarf Dairy Association, or ANDDA. NDGA has a registry, while ANDDA promotes registration in other organizations. Both sponsor shows and provide public education on the Nigerian dwarf goat.