The Saanen goat originated from Saanen Valley of Switzerland. They are the largest among all the dairy goat breeds. They are mainly raised for commercial milk production like jamunapari and alpine goat.
A female Saanen goat produces about 3.8 liters milk daily. Nowadays, Saanen goats are being raised throughout the world.
In United States this breed is one of the best and preferred dairy goat mainly for their consistency in producing large amounts of milk in accordance with their sturdiness, easy keepability and ability to tolerate environmental changes.
The main benefits of raising Saanen goat is that, their care and management is very easy (even a child can take care of them) and they produces milk highly.
Saanen Goat Full Information
Characteristics, feeding, breeding, housing and care of Saanen goat are described below.
Physical Characteristics
Mainly Saanen goats are of white colored. But sometimes biscuit colored goats can also be seen.There may have some black spots in the nose, ears and udder of this goat. The ears are straight to upwards.
Generally they have no horns, but some goats have horns. They have small sized legs and udder is of very big size. They have long sized neck. Their whole body is covered with small sized hair.
The produces milk highly among all the dairy goat breeds. They can adopt themselves with the weather of any region of the world. They love to stay under shade and can’t tolerate sunlight highly.
An adult male Saanen goat weights about 70-90 kg and an adult female goat weights about 60-70 kg. On an average a female goat produces about 3.8 liters milk daily. Their milk contain about 3.5% fat. And this milk is very suitable for preparing all types of dairy or milk products.
Feeding
As Saanen goats are highly milk productive so, they need some extra protein and energy with their regular feed. Along with fresh and good food always provide them fresh and clean water regularly. See what to feed goats. Remember, feeding these goats is very important for getting good production.
Breeding
Saanen goats typically breed every year. And each time produce one or a pair of kids. Take extra care of breeding bucks and pregnant does.
Housing
Housing is very important for Saanen goats. Because they love to stay in shady place and can’t tolerate heavy sunlight. A good house also protects them from all types of predators, adverse conditions and all types of diseases.
Saanen Goat Care
It is very easy to raise Saanen goat. They don’t need any special and extra care. You can raise them with your other animal easily. Even a child can raise and take care of them easily. But taking some extra care and management will increase their health and production.
- Always feed your goat fresh and good quality food which has proper nutrition value and enriched with all necessary feed ingredients.
- Milking process of your goat should done twice a day.
- Try to make a fence around your farm area and always keep the goats inside the farm.
- Ensure sufficient supply of fresh air and light inside their house.
- Clean the house and used equipment of goat regularly.
- Always keep the house dry.
- Keep the male goats separated from the female.
- Take some extra care of the pregnant goats, breeding bucks and kids.
- Provide them sufficient fresh and clean water.
- If needed call a veterinarian as soon as possible.
Review full breed profile of the Saanen goat in the following table.
| Breed Name | Saanen | |
| Other Name | None | |
| Breed Purpose | Milk | |
| Breed Size | Medium to Large | |
| Buck | About 70-90 kg | |
| Doe | About 60-70 kg | |
| Horns | No | |
| Climate Tolerance | All Climates | |
| Coat Color | White | |
| Good for Stall Fed | Yes | |
| Rarity | Common | |
| Country/Place of Origin | Switzerland |
Interesting Facts about Saanen Goats
Saanen goats are a popular dairy breed known for their high milk production and gentle temperament. Here are some interesting facts about Saanen goats:
- Origin: Saanen goats originated in the Saanen Valley of Switzerland, where they were developed for their milk production.
- Appearance: Saanen goats are medium to large-sized goats with short, white hair and upright ears. They have a straight nose, a broad forehead, and a long, straight back. Both males and females have horns that are typically curved upward.
- Milk production: Saanen goats are known for their high milk production, producing an average of 3-4 liters of milk per day. Some Saanen goats can produce up to 5 liters of milk per day. Their milk has a high butterfat content and is ideal for making cheese and other dairy products.
- Docile temperament: Saanen goats are known for their gentle and docile temperament, making them a popular choice for dairy farmers and homesteaders. They are easy to handle and generally get along well with other animals.
- Adaptability: Saanen goats are adaptable to a wide range of climates and environments. They can thrive in hot and humid conditions as well as cold and dry climates.
- Longevity: Saanen goats have a relatively long lifespan, with some living up to 12-14 years. This makes them a good investment for dairy farmers and homesteaders.
- Popular breed: Saanen goats are one of the most popular dairy breeds in the world, with a large population in Europe, North America, and Australia.
- Milk quality: Saanen goat milk is high in butterfat and protein, making it ideal for cheese and other dairy products. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals, including calcium, vitamin A, and vitamin D.
- Breeding: Saanen goats can breed year-round, with a gestation period of around 150 days. They typically give birth to 2-3 kids per litter.
- Herd management: Saanen goats require proper herd management to maintain their health and productivity. This includes providing proper nutrition, maintaining a clean and dry shelter, and implementing a vaccination and parasite control program.
- Showmanship: Saanen goats are popular in livestock shows and competitions, where their milk production and quality are judged. Showmanship is an important aspect of raising Saanen goats, and breeders often work to develop and maintain the best traits in their animals.
- Milk production testing: Milk production testing is a common practice among Saanen goat breeders. This involves regular milk testing to monitor the milk production and quality of individual goats, allowing breeders to identify the most productive and profitable animals.
- Cheese production: Saanen goat milk is used to make a variety of cheeses, including cheddar, feta, and goat cheese. The high butterfat content and mild flavor of Saanen goat milk make it a popular choice for cheese production.
- Meat production: Although Saanen goats are primarily used for their milk production, their meat is also edible and can be used in a variety of dishes.
- Saanen goat associations: There are several Saanen goat associations around the world, including the American Dairy Goat Association and the Australian Goat Society. These associations provide resources and support for Saanen goat breeders and enthusiasts, including breed standards and show guidelines.
Best Tips for Raising Saanen Goats
Raising Saanen goats can be a fulfilling and profitable venture for farmers and homesteaders. Saanen goats are known for their high milk production, docile temperament, and adaptability to different climates. However, raising Saanen goats requires proper care, nutrition, and management. Here are some tips for raising Saanen goats:
- Select the right goats: Saanen goats are a dairy breed and are known for their high milk production. When selecting Saanen goats, choose healthy and well-bred animals with good milk production records.
- Provide proper nutrition: Provide proper nutrition to your Saanen goats by offering them high-quality hay, grains, and minerals. The feed should be well-balanced and meet the nutritional requirements of lactating goats.
- Offer clean water: Ensure your Saanen goats have access to clean and fresh water at all times. They should have access to water troughs or buckets that are cleaned regularly.
- Provide shelter: Provide a clean and dry shelter for your Saanen goats. The shelter should be well-ventilated and free from drafts. It should also be large enough to accommodate the number of goats you have.
- Implement a vaccination program: Implement a vaccination program for your Saanen goats to protect them from common diseases. Consult with your veterinarian to determine which vaccines are necessary for your goats.
- Practice good hygiene: Practice good hygiene by keeping your Saanen goats’ housing clean and free from manure and urine. Regularly clean and disinfect the housing to prevent the spread of diseases.
- Maintain proper hoof care: Maintain proper hoof care by trimming your Saanen goats’ hooves regularly. Hoof trimming should be done every six to eight weeks to prevent foot problems.
- Implement parasite control: Implement a parasite control program for your Saanen goats to prevent internal and external parasites. Consult with your veterinarian to determine which deworming and parasite control products are safe and effective for your goats.
- Practice proper breeding management: Practice proper breeding management by selecting healthy and well-bred bucks and does. Monitor your Saanen goats’ breeding cycles to ensure they are bred at the appropriate time.
- Monitor milk production: Monitor your Saanen goats’ milk production regularly. This will help you detect any changes in milk quality or production and take appropriate measures to address them.
- Provide adequate exercise: Provide adequate exercise for your Saanen goats by allowing them to graze or providing them with a designated area to play and run around.
- Maintain a clean milking environment: Maintain a clean milking environment by keeping the milking area and equipment clean and disinfected. This will help prevent milk contamination and improve milk quality.
- Maintain accurate records: Maintain accurate records of your Saanen goats’ breeding, milk production, health, and management. This will help you track their progress and identify any issues that need to be addressed.
- Seek veterinary care when necessary: Seek veterinary care when necessary to address any health issues or concerns. Regular check-ups and preventive care can help keep your Saanen goats healthy and productive.
Frequently Asked Questions
People ask many questions about Saanen goats. Here we are trying to list the most common questions about this dairy goat breed, and trying to answer them. Hope you will find your answer. Don’t hesitate to ask us if you have more questions.
Is Saanen goat farming profitable?
Yes, raising Saanen goats is definitely a profitable business. But you have to ensure availability of enough green feeds and good marketing facilities.
How much milk does a Saanen goat produce?
Generally, a Saanen goat can produce up to 3 liters of milk daily. And between 700 and 900 liters of milk in a lactation period of 280-300 days.
Which goat is known as queen of milk?
Saanen goat is called the queen of milk. Generally, a Saanen doe can produce up to 3 liters of milk daily.
What are Saanen goats used for?
Saanen is a dairy goat breed and it is used mainly for milk production purpose. These goats are known for their hardiness, high milk production, and also for their calm and sweet nature.
How big is a Saanen goat?
The Saanen doe can reach around or up to 70 kg body weight, and a buck can reach around or up to 90 kg live body weight.
Which goat gives highest milk?
Saanen does gives highest milk.
Are Saanen goats loud?
No, Saanens are not loud. They are extremely quiet.
How old do Saanen goats live?
Average lifespan of a Saanen goat is around or up to 10 years, or even more.
Are Saanen goats good for meat?
The Saanen goats are very good and used for milk production. And they are often used for meat production in some areas.
Is Saanen a pure breed?
Yes, Saanen is a purebred goat breed.
Do Saanen goats have horns?
Yes, some of the Saanens have horns.
How many kids do Saanen goats have per kidding?
Generally, a Saanen doe produce one or two kids per kidding.
What do Saanen goats eat?
Saanens are just like many other domestic goat breeds and they eat everything what other goat breeds eat. But as it is a dairy goat breed, so try to provide them with enough green feeds.
Are Saanen goats small?
No, Saanens are considered as a medium to large goat.
What are the main characteristics of Saanen goats?
The Saanen is a typical dairy-type animal, it has a dished or straight facial line and a wedge-shaped body. Saanens are of medium height when compared with the other Alpine breeds in Australia. Does weigh at least 64 kg.
i m interested to buy saanen goats. how can i buy it abroad and import to Pakistan. what will be the cast after reaching to Pakistan