Raising Nigerian Dwarf Goats: A Comprehensive Guide for Beginners
Nigerian Dwarf goats are increasingly popular among small-scale farmers, homesteaders, and even as backyard pets. Their small size, friendly personalities, and relatively easy care make them an excellent choice for beginners. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about raising Nigerian Dwarf goats, from preparing your property to managing their health.
## Why Choose Nigerian Dwarf Goats?
Before diving into the specifics, let’s explore why Nigerian Dwarf goats are so appealing:
* **Small Size:** Their compact size (typically standing 17-23 inches tall) requires less space and fencing than larger goat breeds.
* **Friendly Temperament:** They are known for their gentle and affectionate nature, making them great companions for families, including children.
* **Good Milk Producers:** Despite their size, Nigerian Dwarf goats are excellent milk producers, yielding sweet and creamy milk. They are often referred to as miniature dairy goats.
* **Adaptable:** They can adapt to various climates and environments.
* **Relatively Easy Care:** Compared to other livestock, their care is generally straightforward, making them suitable for beginners.
* **Dual Purpose:** Besides milk, they can also be used for meat, though they are generally valued more for their milk and companionship.
## Getting Started: Preparation is Key
Successful goat keeping begins with thorough preparation. Before bringing your goats home, ensure you have the following in place:
### 1. Secure Fencing:
Goats are notorious escape artists! Strong and reliable fencing is crucial to keep them safe and contained. Here’s what to consider:
* **Type of Fencing:** Woven wire fencing (goat fencing) is the most effective option. It’s specifically designed to keep goats in and predators out. Electric fencing can also be used as a deterrent, either independently or in conjunction with woven wire.
* **Height:** The fence should be at least 4-5 feet high to prevent jumping. Nigerian Dwarf goats, despite their size, are surprisingly good jumpers.
* **Security:** Regularly inspect the fence for any holes, weak spots, or loose wires. Goats will find and exploit any weakness.
* **Considerations for Kids:** If you plan on breeding your goats, ensure the fencing is secure enough to contain kids (baby goats), who are even smaller and more adventurous.
### 2. Adequate Shelter:
Goats need protection from the elements, including rain, snow, wind, and extreme sun. A simple three-sided shelter or a small barn is sufficient.
* **Size:** The shelter should be large enough to accommodate all your goats comfortably, allowing them to lie down without being cramped. As a general rule, allow at least 15-20 square feet per goat inside the shelter. More is always better.
* **Ventilation:** Proper ventilation is crucial to prevent moisture buildup and respiratory problems. Ensure there are openings for air to circulate without creating drafts.
* **Bedding:** Provide a deep layer of clean, dry bedding, such as straw, hay, or wood shavings. Change the bedding regularly to maintain hygiene.
* **Location:** Position the shelter in a location that provides good drainage to prevent muddy conditions.
### 3. Essential Equipment:
Gather the necessary equipment to care for your goats:
* **Feeders:** Choose feeders that are appropriate for goats and prevent them from wasting feed. Wall-mounted feeders or feeders with dividers can help minimize waste.
* **Water Troughs or Buckets:** Provide a constant supply of fresh, clean water. Automatic waterers can be convenient, but ensure they are easy to clean and maintain.
* **Mineral Feeder:** Goats require mineral supplementation. Provide a free-choice mineral feeder containing loose minerals specifically formulated for goats.
* **Hoof Trimmers:** Regular hoof trimming is essential for goat health. Purchase a good quality pair of hoof trimmers.
* **First-Aid Kit:** Assemble a first-aid kit containing essential supplies such as wound spray, antiseptic solution, bandages, a thermometer, and a dewormer. Consult with your veterinarian for recommended medications and dosages.
* **Grooming Brush:** A brush will help you keep your goats clean and healthy. Regular grooming helps prevent skin problems and allows you to bond with your animals.
### 4. Source Reputable Goats:
Choosing healthy and well-bred goats is essential for a successful goat-keeping venture. Here’s what to look for:
* **Reputable Breeders:** Purchase goats from reputable breeders who prioritize health, genetics, and temperament. Ask about their breeding practices, health testing, and vaccination protocols.
* **Health Checks:** Inspect the goats carefully for any signs of illness, such as coughing, sneezing, runny nose, diarrhea, or lameness. Check their eyes, ears, and skin for any abnormalities.
* **Age:** Consider starting with young goats (kids or yearlings) as they are often easier to train and manage than older goats.
* **Registration:** If you are interested in showing or breeding registered goats, ensure the goats are registered with a recognized breed association.
* **Temperament:** Observe the goats’ behavior. Choose goats that are friendly, curious, and not overly aggressive or fearful.
* **Ask Questions:** Don’t hesitate to ask the breeder questions about the goats’ history, health, and care requirements.
## Daily Care Routine:
A consistent daily routine is essential for maintaining the health and well-being of your Nigerian Dwarf goats.
### 1. Feeding:
Goats are ruminants, meaning they have a four-compartment stomach that allows them to digest fibrous plant material. Their diet should consist primarily of high-quality forage (hay or pasture) supplemented with grain and minerals.
* **Forage:** Provide free-choice access to high-quality hay or pasture. Grass hay is generally a good choice, but avoid moldy or dusty hay.
* **Grain:** Grain should be offered in moderation, especially for goats that are not lactating or pregnant. Overfeeding grain can lead to obesity and health problems. A general rule of thumb is to provide about 1/2 to 1 pound of grain per goat per day, depending on their size and activity level. Opt for a goat-specific grain mix or a balanced feed formulated for livestock.
* **Minerals:** Provide free-choice access to a loose mineral supplement specifically formulated for goats. These minerals should contain essential nutrients such as copper, selenium, and zinc.
* **Water:** Ensure a constant supply of fresh, clean water. Goats need plenty of water, especially during hot weather or lactation.
* **Treats:** Offer occasional treats such as fruits, vegetables, or browse (leaves and branches) in moderation.
### 2. Watering:
Fresh, clean water is critical. Check water troughs or buckets daily, cleaning them as needed to prevent algae growth.
* **Winter Considerations:** In cold weather, ensure the water doesn’t freeze. Use heated water troughs or break the ice regularly.
### 3. Shelter Maintenance:
Keep the shelter clean and dry.
* **Daily Cleaning:** Remove manure and soiled bedding daily to prevent odor and bacterial growth.
* **Regular Bedding Changes:** Replace the bedding completely as needed to maintain a clean and comfortable environment.
### 4. Health Checks:
Observe your goats daily for any signs of illness or injury.
* **Early Detection:** Look for changes in appetite, behavior, or physical appearance. Check their eyes, ears, nose, and skin for any abnormalities.
* **Temperature Monitoring:** If you suspect a goat is ill, take its temperature using a rectal thermometer. A normal temperature for goats is between 101.5°F and 103.5°F.
### 5. Social Interaction:
Goats are social animals and need interaction with their herd mates.
* **Companionship:** Never keep a single goat alone. They need the company of other goats to thrive.
* **Enrichment:** Provide enrichment activities to keep them mentally stimulated. This could include providing climbing structures, toys, or opportunities to browse.
## Regular Health Maintenance:
In addition to daily care, regular health maintenance is crucial for preventing and managing health problems.
### 1. Hoof Trimming:
Trim your goats’ hooves every 6-8 weeks to prevent overgrown hooves, which can lead to lameness and other health problems.
* **Tools:** Use a sharp pair of hoof trimmers.
* **Technique:** Trim the hooves to maintain their natural shape and prevent overgrowth. Remove any loose or overgrown horn. Be careful not to cut too deeply, as this can cause bleeding.
* **Prevention:** Regular hoof trimming helps prevent foot rot and other hoof infections.
### 2. Deworming:
Goats are susceptible to internal parasites. Deworm your goats regularly based on fecal egg counts and your veterinarian’s recommendations.
* **Fecal Egg Counts:** Have your veterinarian perform fecal egg counts to determine the level of parasite infestation and the effectiveness of the dewormer. This helps prevent the development of anthelmintic resistance.
* **Deworming Medications:** Use a dewormer that is effective against the parasites in your area. Rotate dewormers periodically to prevent resistance.
* **Proper Dosage:** Administer the dewormer at the correct dosage according to the goat’s weight.
* **FAMACHA Scoring:** Learn how to use the FAMACHA system to assess anemia levels in your goats, which can help you determine which goats need deworming.
### 3. Vaccinations:
Vaccinate your goats against common diseases such as tetanus and clostridium perfringens (overeating disease). Consult with your veterinarian for a recommended vaccination schedule.
* **CD&T Vaccine:** The CD&T vaccine protects against clostridium perfringens types C and D and tetanus. It is typically given to kids at 8 and 12 weeks of age, followed by an annual booster.
* **Other Vaccines:** Depending on your location and the prevalence of other diseases, your veterinarian may recommend additional vaccines.
### 4. Disease Prevention:
Practice good hygiene and sanitation to prevent the spread of disease.
* **Cleanliness:** Keep the shelter and feeding areas clean and dry.
* **Quarantine:** Quarantine any new goats for at least 30 days before introducing them to the existing herd to prevent the introduction of diseases.
* **Biosecurity:** Implement biosecurity measures to prevent the introduction of diseases from outside sources. This could include limiting visitors, disinfecting equipment, and controlling pests.
### 5. Veterinary Care:
Establish a relationship with a veterinarian who is experienced in treating goats. Seek veterinary care promptly if your goats show any signs of illness or injury.
* **Regular Checkups:** Schedule regular checkups with your veterinarian to monitor your goats’ health and address any potential problems early on.
* **Emergency Care:** Know how to contact your veterinarian in case of an emergency.
## Breeding Nigerian Dwarf Goats:
If you plan on breeding your Nigerian Dwarf goats, there are several factors to consider.
### 1. Breeding Age:
Does (female goats) should not be bred until they are at least 8 months old and have reached a good size. Bucks (male goats) can be used for breeding as early as 6 months old, but it’s best to wait until they are older and more mature.
### 2. Heat Cycle:
Does typically come into heat every 17-21 days. Signs of heat include tail wagging, bleating, restlessness, and attraction to bucks.
### 3. Breeding Methods:
* **Natural Breeding:** The most common method is to allow the buck to breed the doe naturally. The buck should be healthy and fertile.
* **Artificial Insemination (AI):** AI is a more advanced technique that involves collecting semen from the buck and artificially inseminating the doe. This requires specialized equipment and training.
### 4. Pregnancy Care:
The gestation period for goats is approximately 150 days (5 months).
* **Nutrition:** Provide pregnant does with a balanced diet and plenty of high-quality forage. Increase their grain ration during the last few weeks of pregnancy to support fetal growth.
* **Health Care:** Ensure pregnant does are up-to-date on their vaccinations and deworming.
* **Preparation:** Prepare a clean and comfortable kidding area for the doe.
### 5. Kidding (Parturition):
Be prepared to assist the doe during kidding if necessary.
* **Signs of Labor:** Signs of labor include nesting behavior, restlessness, and straining.
* **Assistance:** Most does can kid without assistance, but it’s important to be present to monitor the process and provide assistance if needed.
* **Post-Kidding Care:** Ensure the kids nurse colostrum (first milk) within the first few hours of life. Colostrum provides essential antibodies that protect the kids from disease. Dip the kids’ umbilical cords in iodine to prevent infection.
## Milking Nigerian Dwarf Goats:
Nigerian Dwarf goats are excellent milk producers, making them a popular choice for homesteaders and small-scale farmers.
### 1. Preparing for Milking:
* **Equipment:** Gather the necessary equipment, including a clean milking pail, udder wash, towels, and a milk filter.
* **Hygiene:** Wash your hands thoroughly before milking.
* **Udder Preparation:** Clean the doe’s udder with warm water and a mild disinfectant. Dry the udder thoroughly with a clean towel.
### 2. Milking Technique:
* **Hand Milking:** Most people milk Nigerian Dwarf goats by hand. Use a gentle but firm grip to squeeze the milk from the udder. Avoid pulling or pinching the teats.
* **Machine Milking:** Small milking machines are available for goats. These machines can save time and effort, especially if you have multiple does to milk.
### 3. Milk Handling:
* **Filtering:** Filter the milk immediately after milking to remove any debris.
* **Cooling:** Cool the milk quickly to prevent bacterial growth. Store the milk in a refrigerator at a temperature of 40°F (4°C) or below.
### 4. Milking Frequency:
* **Twice Daily:** Most does are milked twice a day, in the morning and evening. Consistent milking times help maintain milk production.
* **Once Daily:** Some people milk their does only once a day, but this may result in lower milk production.
### 5. Weaning Kids:
* **Weaning Age:** Kids are typically weaned at 8-12 weeks of age.
* **Weaning Process:** Gradually reduce the amount of milk the kids receive to avoid discomfort for the doe.
## Common Challenges and Solutions:
Even with the best care, you may encounter some challenges when raising Nigerian Dwarf goats.
### 1. Parasite Infestation:
* **Challenge:** Internal parasites are a common problem in goats.
* **Solution:** Implement a regular deworming program based on fecal egg counts and your veterinarian’s recommendations. Practice pasture management to reduce parasite exposure.
### 2. Foot Rot:
* **Challenge:** Foot rot is a contagious bacterial infection that affects the hooves.
* **Solution:** Trim hooves regularly and maintain a clean and dry environment. Treat infected hooves with a topical antiseptic solution.
### 3. Bloat:
* **Challenge:** Bloat is a condition caused by gas buildup in the rumen.
* **Solution:** Provide a balanced diet and avoid sudden changes in feed. Ensure goats have access to plenty of water. In severe cases, veterinary intervention may be necessary.
### 4. Coccidiosis:
* **Challenge:** Coccidiosis is a parasitic disease that affects young goats.
* **Solution:** Practice good sanitation and provide a coccidiostat in the goats’ feed or water. Treat infected goats with a coccidiocide.
### 5. Predator Threats:
* **Challenge:** Goats are vulnerable to predators such as dogs, coyotes, and foxes.
* **Solution:** Provide secure fencing and consider using guard animals such as dogs, llamas, or donkeys. Install motion-activated lights or alarms.
## Conclusion:
Raising Nigerian Dwarf goats can be a rewarding experience. With proper planning, care, and attention, you can enjoy the companionship of these adorable animals and reap the benefits of their sweet milk. This comprehensive guide provides a solid foundation for beginners, but remember to continue learning and adapt your practices as needed. Consult with experienced goat keepers and your veterinarian for ongoing guidance and support. Happy goat keeping!