Beetal goat is a very beautiful, large and very common and popular goat breed. It is a dual-purpose breed and has distinct physical characteristics. These goats are raised for both meat and milk production purpose. They are among the most popular goat breeds in India.
Beetal goat originated form India and a very important goat breed of some Asian countries especially of India and Pakistan. They have similarities with Jamunapari goats. They are very common and popular goats in their native regions.
They are very highly milk productive goat breed. And at the same time, they are also very suitable for commercial meat production purpose. They are very suitable for intensive goat farming system with a very little or no grazing place.
And they can also adopt themselves easily with different environmental and climatic conditions. A large number of Beetal goat can be found in Punjab, Sialkot, Gurdaspur of India, Lahore, Rawalpindi of Pakistan and some regions of Bangladesh.
Origin and History
The Beetal is an India goat breed, particularly from the Punjab region. It is known for its large size and beautiful appearance. It is relatively a large breed with males often weighing over 100 kilograms.
These goats have a long history, dating back hundreds of years. And it is believed to have originated from crossing local Indian goat breeds with exotic breeds brought by traders and invaders.
Beetal goats are highly valued for their meat and milk production. They are also known for their adaptability to various climates. They have become popular not only in India but also in some other parts of the world due to their hardiness and productivity.
Why Is Beetal Goat Very Popular?
Beetal goats are very very popular in it’s native area. Because, they are very hardy and they are well adapted to dry conditions and tropical climate. They are heat tolerant and can do well with their local extremes of temperature ranging from 2ยฐC in winter to about 42ยฐC in summer. Actually, they can adopt themselves and do very well in the varying climates of India and surrounding countries.
The Beetal does are prolific breeders (averaging 1.66 kids per litter). The does give birth of kids once a year, and they start kidding from their 17-18 months of age. Beetal is considered as a multipurpose breed and they can be raised for meat, milk and also for skin. See characteristics, feeding, housing, breeding and care of Beetal goat below.
Characteristics
Beetal goats are very beautiful and they have some distinctive physical characteristics. So, it is relatively easy to distinguish a Beetal from many other goat breeds. They are big and long sized goats, but smaller than Jamnapari goat.
They are of various colors including black, brown, red, or white. Sometimes pied, spotted, or mottled colored goats are also seen. But mainly the color of their body is red or golden brown with white spots.
Their body is generally compact and well developed. They have long sized legs and ears. Ears are pendulous. Their tail is comparatively short. The does generally produce one pair of kids per year. The does are highly milk productive. They are capable of producing about 1-2 litters milk daily (sometimes even more).
Their head is massive and broad with a roman nose. Both male and female goat have a pair of horns. Their spiraled horns are long in males but shorter in females. Female goats have long teats which are well developed with their udder. Their horns are curved to backward.
Female goat produce kids for the first time at the age of 20-22 months of age. They can also give birth of kids as early as 17-18 months of age. Adult male goat’s weight is about 65 kg, and female goat’s weight is about 45 kg.
Beetal goat is also very popular and famous for it’s meat production capability. They are actually dual-purpose goats. They become very hardy and can adopt themselves with almost all types of climate and environment.
Dietary Requirements
Providing these animals with fresh and nutritious goat feed is very essential for successful goat farming business. Goats are ruminant animals. They eat almost all types of plants, leaves and grasses.
Beetal goats are generally highly meat and milk productive. So, they need good quality, well balanced and nutritious food. Ensure sufficient ratio of protein and carbohydrate in their food. See full feeding guide of goat here. What to feed goats. Along with nutritious food serve them sufficient clean and fresh water regularly.
Housing Requirements
Goats generally like dry place for living. So, it is very important to keep their housing system dry and clean always to keep the goats healthy and productive. Comfortable and secure goat housing systems also affect the milking capability of Beetal goats. Their production varies by their living condition and keeping methods.
Generally these goats will produce more if they are kept in a grazing place during day time, and in a dry and comfortable house at night. A good house also help to keep the goats free from predators and all types of germs and diseases. Ensure adequate space is available per goat inside the house.
Breeding/Reproduction
Like many other goat breeds, the Beetal goats are also naturally very good breeders. They will breed easily if you keep good ratio of male and female in your farm. Generally one buck is enough for breeding around or up to 25-30 does.
A Beetal bucks generally become mature at their 12-15 months of age. And a doe produces kids for the first time at their 20-22 months of age. Does produce one pair of kids every year. To be success in breeding process of Beetal goat, take special care of buck for breeding purpose and also take good care for the pregnant goat.
Health Management
Beetal goats are naturally healthy and active animals. Try to provide them with proper nutrition, including a balanced diet of hay, grains, and fresh water. Perform regular health check-ups by a veterinarian. And doing this will help in early detection and treatment of any diseases or parasites.
Ensure a clean and hygienic living environment for your goats to keep them healthy (with adequate shelter and space). Vaccinate your goats against common goat diseases (such as goat pox and foot rot).
Perform regular grooming, including trimming hooves and brushing coats. And this will help to maintain their health and hygiene. Also provide them exercise and socialization opportunities to promote mental and physical health in Beetal goats. And doing all these will help to keep your goats strong, active and healthy.
Hardiness
Beetal goats are known for their hardiness. They can adapt themselves well to different environments and climatic conditions. As they were originated from the Punjab region of India, they have developed resilience to hot climates. And they are suitable for various regions with similar weather.
They have a strong immune system and able to withstand many common goat diseases. These goats are also known for their ability to thrive on a variety of food sources (including low-quality forage) which makes them economical to raise.
Behavior/Temperament
Beetal goats are known for their docile temperament and friendly behavior. They are very easy to handle and work with. They are social animals and they enjoy the company of other goats and humans. These goats are generally calm and gentle. They are very suitable for both small-scale and commercial goat farming business.
Caring
Caring these goats is very easy and simple. Actually, these goats need some special care and management to get highest production. Some special care and management task for raising Beetal goats are:
- Select healthy and productive goats for commercial production purpose.
- Always try to purchase active and healthy goats from well known and reputed farms or breeders.
- Always try to feed your goats with fresh and nutritious food.
- It will be better if you can manage a grazing place for your goats.
- Always try to keep the equipment and house clean. This will help to keep the goats free from diseases.
Lifespan
Lifespan of a goat can vary depending on numerous factors such as genetics, diet, healthcare, and living conditions. However, average lifespan of the Beetal goats is between 10 and 12 years.
Uses
Beetal goats are multipurpose animals and they have multiple uses. They are valuable animals for farmers and breeders. They are mainly raised for their meat. And their meat is known for its tender texture and delicious flavor. Beetal does are also very good milk producers. Their milk is very suitable for making various dairy products such as cheese and yogurt.
Price
Beetal goats are very popular among farmers and breeders. They are very popular mainly for their large size, good meat and milk production, and hardiness. And due to their popularity, the demand for Beetal goats is often high. Although, exact price can vary form place to place. Visit any of your nearest breeders or suppliers to know more about the current price.
Pros and Cons of Beetal Goats
Like many other domestic goat breeds, these goats also have some advantages and disadvantages. Here we are trying to list the pros and cons of Beetal goats:
Pros:
- High meat and milk production
- Very strong and hardy
- Adaptable to many conditions
- Friendly temperament
- Good breeding stock
Cons:
- High initial cost
- Requires proper care
- Space requirements
- Potential for health issues
Review full breed profile of the Beetal goat in the table below.
| Breed Name | Beetal | |
| Other Name | None | |
| Breed Purpose | Meat, Milk | |
| Breed Size | Medium to Large | |
| Buck | About 65 kg | |
| Doe | About 45 kg | |
| Horns | Yes | |
| Climate Tolerance | All Climates | |
| Coat Color | Many color variations | |
| Good for Stall Fed | Yes | |
| Rarity | Common | |
| Country/Place of Origin | Punjab Region |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
People often ask some questions regarding the Beetal goats. Here we are trying to answer the most common questions about this breed. We hope you will find your answer. But if not, don’t hesitate to ask.
