Pygmy goat is one of the hardiest and productive domestic goat breeds. They are very suitable as pet and also for commercial production.
Pygmy goat originated from the Cameroon Valley of West Africa. They generally raised for their meat production. But also works as milk producer. Some people raise them as pet as a hobby.
They become very hardy, good-nature, alert and animated. They are also a good responsive pet, ecologically effective browsers and a cooperative milk provider.
They are considered as an asset in a wide variety of settings. They can adopt themselves with almost all types of climate/weather.
Pygmy goats were first imported into the United States in 1959, and now are being raised as pets and laboratory animals. Characteristics, feeding, breeding, housing and care of pygmy goat are described below.
Pygmy Goat Physical Characteristics
Pygmy goats are one of the smallest domestic goat breeds in the world. They are cute, cuddly, and make great pets for both children and adults.
However, before you bring one home, it is important to know their characteristics and what makes them unique. Here we are going to share some of the physical and behavioral traits of Pygmy goats, their history, and some tips on caring for them.
Appearance
Pygmy goats have a compact and muscular build, with short legs and a rounded body. They typically weigh between 55-75 pounds and stand at around 16-23 inches tall. Their coats come in a variety of colors such as caramel, black, brown, and grey.
One of the most notable features of Pygmy goats is their oversized head, which gives them a distinct appearance. They have long, floppy ears that can sometimes droop below their chin, and their eyes are large and expressive.
Feeding
Goats are ruminant animals. They remains healthy and productive only if they are feed properly according to their sex, age and individual conditions. Generally, pygmy goat demands less variety of feed.
They can live healthy and good life by consuming simply fine green grasses, hay and some grain or corns each day. It will be great if you can make a browsing place for them. They will consume grasses or leaves from there. But don’t stop feeding them some hay.
Always try to feed them some hay regularly. In the case of supplementary feed try to maintain the balanced ratio of protein, phosphorus, calcium and magnesium.
The male goats for breeding purpose needs some special feed and care because they are burning up a lot of fuel. Try to feed them two cups of alfalfa pellets daily depending on their body size and activity.
Be careful feeding the female goats. Don’t feed them excessive fatty feed. Because over-conditioned (fat) female goats faces difficulties in getting pregnant and delivering kids.
The feed for pregnant goat should contain approximately 16% of protein. Milking goats requires two times more food than pregnant goat.
In accordance with providing fresh quality good feed they also needs to provide sufficient amount of fresh and clean water regularly. Always keep sufficient clean and fresh water in front of them and inside their house.
Breeding
Always keep a record of the breeding campaign of your pygmy goat. Try to keep the goats for breeding purpose separated from other goats.
In proper care and management a female goat become suitable for the breeding purpose at their age of 7-10 months.
The gestation period of pygmy goat is from 145-155 days. Keep them in separate place and take special care.
Housing
A good designed and facilitated goat housing keeps the goat safe and diseases free. In accordance with a good house, make a fence around your farm area. Try to provide for shade in the summer and rainy season.
They always need and like dry places for sleeping, eating and exercising. Northeast faced three sided shed is very suitable for moderate climates. Make adequate drainage inside the house.
Behavior
Pygmy goats are friendly and social creatures, making them excellent pets. They are known for their playful and mischievous nature, always finding ways to entertain themselves and their owners. They love to run and jump, climb trees and rocks, and explore their surroundings.
Despite their small size, Pygmy goats are also surprisingly strong. They have powerful legs and can easily jump over obstacles or push open gates if they want to go somewhere.
These goats are herd animals and thrive in groups. They enjoy interacting with other goats and will even form close bonds with their human caregivers. Pygmy goats are vocal creatures and will often bleat or make other noises to communicate with their companions.
Review full breed profile of the Pygmy goat in the table below.
| Breed Name | Pygmy | |
| Other Name | None | |
| Breed Purpose | Multi-purpose | |
| Breed Size | Small | |
| Buck | About 27 to 39 kg | |
| Doe | About 24 to 34 kg | |
| Horns | Yes | |
| Climate Tolerance | All Climates | |
| Coat Color | Many color variations | |
| Good for Stall Fed | Not sure | |
| Rarity | Common | |
| Country/Place of Origin | West Africa |
Interesting Facts about Pygmy Goats
Pygmy goats are one of the smallest domestic goat breeds in the world, and they have captured the hearts of many as pets. These adorable animals are friendly, playful, and mischievous, making them perfect for families with children or anyone looking for a fun and low-maintenance pet.
Here are some interesting facts about Pygmy goats that you may not know. From their history to their physical characteristics and behavior, these fascinating facts will help you appreciate these cute little creatures even more.
- Pygmy goats were first discovered in Cameroon, West Africa, in the 1950s. They were brought to Europe and America in the 1960s and became popular as pets due to their small size and friendly nature.
- Pygmy goats are one of the smallest goat breeds in the world. They typically weigh between 55-75 pounds and stand at around 16-23 inches tall.
- With proper care and nutrition, Pygmy goats can live up to 10-12 years.
- Pygmy goats have a muscular build, short legs, and a rounded body. They are incredibly agile and can easily jump over obstacles and climb trees.
- Pygmy goats come in a wide range of colors, including caramel, black, brown, and gray. Some even have spots or stripes on their fur.
- One of the most distinctive features of Pygmy goats is their oversized head, which gives them a unique appearance. Their long ears can sometimes droop below their chin, and their eyes are large and expressive.
- Pygmy goats are social animals and thrive in groups. They enjoy interacting with other goats and will even form close bonds with their human caregivers.
- Due to their friendly and playful nature, Pygmy goats make great pets for families with children. They are easy to handle, gentle, and love to play.
- Pygmy goats are vocal creatures and will often bleat or make other noises to communicate with other goats or their human caregivers.
- Pygmy goats are known for their mischievous personality. They love to run and jump, climb trees, and explore their surroundings.
- Pygmy goats are herbivores and should be fed a diet that is high in fiber. This can include hay, fresh grass, and commercial goat feed.
- Pygmy goats are active animals and require plenty of exercise to stay healthy. They should be given space to run and play, both indoors and outdoors.
- Pygmy goats are hardy creatures and can adapt well to different climates and living conditions. However, they do require proper care to ensure their health and wellbeing.
- Pygmy goats are intelligent animals and can learn tricks and commands quickly. They also have a good memory and can recognize familiar faces and voices.
- Pygmy goats are excellent climbers and love to climb on rocks, trees, and other obstacles. They use their powerful legs to jump and scale heights with ease.
- Pygmy goats are easy to train and can be taught basic commands and tricks using positive reinforcement techniques.
- Pygmy goats can adapt well to different environments, including rural and urban areas. They are also well-suited to living in small spaces, such as apartments or backyards.
- Pygmy goats have a gentle temperament and rarely show aggression towards humans or other animals. They are docile and friendly, making them great pets for families with children.
- Pygmy goats have a unique digestive system that allows them to digest tough fibers and plant materials. Their four-chambered stomach helps break down food before it is absorbed into their bloodstream.
- Although Pygmy goats are primarily kept as pets, they are also known for their milk production. They produce rich and creamy milk that is high in protein and essential nutrients.
- In some countries, Pygmy goats are raised for meat production. However, they are typically smaller than other goat breeds, so their meat yield is lower.
Tips for Raising Pygmy Goats
If you’re interested in raising goats but don’t have a lot of space, then Pygmy goats might be just what you need. These miniature goats are friendly, curious, and easy to care for, making them a great addition to any backyard or homestead. Here are some best tips for raising Pygmy goats:
Choose the Right Breed
There are several different breeds of Pygmy goats, so make sure you choose one that fits your needs. Look for a breed that is hardy, docile, and easy to handle.
Provide Adequate Space
Even though Pygmy goats are small, they still need plenty of room to move around. Ideally, each goat needs at least 200 square feet of space.
Build a Secure Fence
Goats are notorious escape artists, so make sure your fence is sturdy and secure. A five-foot-tall fence made of woven wire or chain link is ideal.
Provide Shelter
Pygmy goats need access to shelter to protect them from the elements. A simple three-sided shed with a raised floor will do.
Offer Fresh Water
Goats need fresh water available at all times. Make sure you provide a clean source of water in a container that can’t be tipped over.
Feed Them Properly
Pygmy goats need a diet that consists of hay, grains, and fresh vegetables. They also need access to minerals and salt licks.
Keep Their Hooves Trimmed
Regular hoof trimming is necessary for Pygmy goats to avoid foot problems. It’s important to learn how to properly trim their hooves or hire a professional.
Practice Good Hygiene
Goats are prone to parasites and diseases, so it’s important to keep their living area clean and practice good hygiene when handling them.
Keep Them Away from Toxic Plants
Some plants are toxic to goats, so make sure you keep them away from anything that could be harmful.
Socialize Your Goats
Pygmy goats are social animals and thrive in a herd environment. Make sure you have at least two goats, or consider keeping them with other farm animals.
Exercise Them
Provide opportunities for your goats to exercise by providing climbing structures and toys.
Monitor Their Health
Regularly monitor your goat’s health and get them veterinary care as needed.
Give Them Plenty of Love
Pygmy goats are friendly and enjoy human interaction. Spend time with them daily and give them plenty of affection.
Be Prepared for Breeding
If you plan to breed your Pygmy goats, make sure you have a breeding plan in place and that you’re prepared for the responsibilities that come with it.
Keep Them Cool in Hot Weather
Pygmy goats can suffer from heat stress, so provide shade and plenty of cool water during hot weather.
Protect Them from Predators
Even though they’re small, Pygmy goats can still fall prey to predators like coyotes and dogs. Make sure their living area is secure and predator-proof.
Have a Plan for Winter
Pygmy goats can handle cold weather, but you need to have a plan for keeping them warm and dry during the winter months.
Be Prepared for Kidding
If you’re planning to breed your goats, make sure you’re prepared for kidding season and know what signs to look for.
Learn to Recognize Signs of Illness
Pygmy goats can suffer from a variety of illnesses, so it’s important to learn how to recognize the signs of illness and get them veterinary care as needed.
Keep Them Entertained
Pygmy goats are curious and playful, so provide them with toys and items to play with to keep them entertained.
Trim Their Hair
Pygmy goats have thick hair that can get matted and cause skin problems. Make sure to trim their hair regularly to avoid these issues.
Be Prepared for Emergency Situations
Have a plan in place for emergency situations like injury or illness, and know how to administer basic first aid.
Enjoy
Pygmy goats are delightful animals to raise and can bring hours of joy and companionship to your life.
