Pygmy goat farming is very popular throughout the world. Because it is among the hardiest, productive and multi-purpose domestic goat breeds. And the Pygmy goats are suitable for both commercial production and also for raising as pets.
The Pygmy goats actually originated from the Cameroon Valley of West Africa, and they are generally raised for meat production in their native area. But compared to their body size, they are also good for milk production. And they are very suitable for raising as pets.
The Pygmy goats naturally become very hardy, good-natured, alert and animated. They are also good responsive pet, ecologically effective browsers and a cooperative milk provider.
The Pygmy goats are capable of adapting themselves to a wide variety of settings and agro-climatic conditions. That’s why they are popular and raised throughout the world. And commercial Pygmy goat farming can be a good and profitable business.
How to Start Pygmy Goat Farming
Starting Pygmy goat farming business is as easy as starting a goat farming business with any other domestic goat breeds. For starting and operating Pygmy goat farming business you have to purchase very good quality animals, build a good house or shelter for them, provide them with good and nutritious foods and always try to take good care of them. Here we are shortly describing about all the steps.
Purchase Goats
First of all, purchase very good quality, healthy and disease free goats from any of your nearest livestock market or any existing farms.
Pygmy goats are popular and available around the world. So you will probably be able to easily find the goats within your area. You can also search your local online classified websites.
Housing
Make a good shelter for your Pygmy goats. Like many other domestic goat breeds, the Pygmy goats also prefer dry and clean place for living. So always try to keep the house as clean and dry as possible. You can make raised house for keeping it dry and clean.
Make the house in such a way so that you can easily clean the house. Good ventilation system is a must, so install good ventilation system inside the house. And also ensure sufficient flow of fresh air and light inside the house.
As a smaller sized breed, the Pygmy goats will require around 10 square feet housing space. And you will need to arrange more space as playing ground if you want to raise your goats in stall fed system.
Feeding
Feeding the goats with very high quality feeds is the most important part of Pygmy goat farming business. So, always try to feed your goats with high quality feeds. Pygmy goats require both greens and grains for proper growth. And they will require more green feeds if you want to produce milk.
Provide the goats with required vitamins and minerals as per the suggestion of an experienced vet. And always try to provide them with enough clean and fresh water.
Breeding
The Pygmy goats are naturally very good breeders. Although you should keep a record of the breeding campaign of your animals. Keep the goats separated from the herd if you are using them for breeding purpose.
In proper care and management, the does become suitable for breeding within their 7-10 months of age. Average gestation period of the Pygmy doe is between 145 and 155 days.
Caring
Along with providing good shelter and quality foods, the Pygmy goats also require additional caring for better growth and production.
So always try to take good care of them. De-worm and vaccinate them timely and consult a vet immediately if you notice anything wrong within your herd.
Marketing
Marketing goat products is not a problem, and it is one of the major advantages of goat farming business. You will probably be able to easily sell your products in your local market. But it is wise to set a marketing strategies before starting this business.
These are the common steps for starting and operating a successful Pygmy goat farming business. Hope this guide has helped! Good luck & may God bless you!
