Pygmy Goats

As the name rightly suggests, pygmy goats are small in size, as compared to other goat breeds. Natives to Africa, these goats were introduced to the United States during the 1950s. Initially, they were used as zoo animals and also for research purposes, but, these hardy goats are now raised as house pets too. Let us take a look at some of the interesting pygmy goat facts.

Origin

As mentioned above, pygmy goats are natives to Africa. During the 1950s, when they were introduced to the United States, these miniature goats were of two types that were not distinguished properly. While one type had compact body with shorter legs, other had a slender body with longer legs. It was during the 1970s that the two types of pygmy goats were distinguished from each other. Selective breeding resulted in two entirely different breeds, named African pygmy (with compact bodies) and the Nigerian dwarf goats (slender bodies). While, the origin of both goat breeds are similar, they are different. The term pygmy goats usually refers to the African type with a stout and heavy-boned body.

Appearance

Now, you know that pygmy goats are short and hardy. While, the females (called does) have a body weight that ranges between 20 to 35 kilograms, in males (bucks) it is around 25 to 40 kilograms. Both sexes possess horns that are usually larger in males. You can find these goats in different colors and color combinations and their hair is short and smooth. The main among them are agoutis, solid blacks, caramels and blacks. Agoutis have slightly dark-colored bodies with stockings of a darker shade. While solid blacks have a black-colored body without any patches or stockings, blacks have a body color of black, but with some secondary colors around the eyes, ears and nose. Caramels are African pygmy goats with a light body color (white to caramel shades) and dark stockings. They have light-colored stripes on their stockings. The lifespan of these goats is between ten to fifteen years.

Other Pygmy Goat Facts

Even though, pygmy goats are of small size, they can produce considerable amount of milk. Even the meat of these goats are edible. But, they are not as popular as other larger breeds that are usually raised for milk and meat. It has been observed that these goats are being raised as pets, due to the gentle nature and hardy constitution. Pygmy goats are popular pets due to their size, friendliness, playful nature, etc. They are also responsive to their owners and crave for love and attention. These goats are prolific breeders and it has been noted that females breed at a young age of 1.5 to 2 years. Pygmy goat care involves various factors, like feeding, hoof trimming, horn removal, etc. Horn removal of debudding is recommended for pet goats, so as to avoid accidental injury. It must be done at a young age. Hoof trimming is usually done at regular intervals of one to two months. Even neutering of males is recommended, as there are chances of developing aggression, when they become adults. Other procedures, such as necessary vaccinations, deworming, use of supplements, etc., must be done as per the instructions of the vet. It is said that pygmy goats must be fed moderately, so that they do not get obese. It is always better to provide them with a companion. Even other pets that get along with goats will do.

In short, pygmy goats are cute, little animals that are perfect as pets. The above said is only a brief overview about the animal. You must get a detailed understanding about these animals, if you decide to have them as pets. You can gain this knowledge from a vet or from people with such pets.