Getting Started

Photo credit – Old Mountain Farm, Cheryle Moore Smith & Wyl Smith

Why Nigerians?  Because they are sweet-natured, easy to handle and produce really nice milk. Their compact size and gentle natures make them ideal for children and older people providing endless hours of fun and companionship. Nigerians, because of their small size, don't need as much space so small landholdings are a viable option for them. There are many advantages to owning Nigerians, including companionship, land management by grazing, and milk production. If you're thinking of getting Nigerians then the first thing to do is to identify your purpose and then make your decision based on your end goal. 

Breeding Nigerians

Breeding goats is not for the fainthearted. It’s hard work, challenging, frustrating, heartbreaking, highly rewarding, entertaining, heart-warming and a whole lot of fun. Sometimes, all at the same time!

If you think breeding Nigerians is for you then the first and most important thing to do is educate yourself as to what’s required of you financially and physically and what infrastructure you will need.  Talk to as many NDGSA breeders as you can and ask them for their experiences and advice and perhaps even find yourself a mentor. 

The NDGSA is here to support you in establishing yourself as a Nigerian Dwarf breeder and you will find a wealth of experience amongst our members.

Learn more about breeding Nigerians here >

Pet Nigerians

Photo Credit: Brandy Hammonds, Ivy Stone Farm

Nigerian Dwarf Goats make wonderful pets as they are easy to handle, loving, funny and enchanting. 

If your considering Nigerians as pets then the best option is wethered male Nigerians as they are more affordable and have delightful natures.   Wethers are sold and should be kept in pairs as every goat needs the company of its own breed. Sheep, dogs and other animals do not replace the company of another goat.

As a Nigerian ownder you will need more than a standard backyard to keep them happy and healthy as well as warm and waterproof shelter, specialised food and you should be willing and able to do regular husbandry.  Find a breeder in your area or contact the NDGSA to discuss what you need to know about keeping Nigerians as pets.

Learn more about keeping Nigerians as pets here >.

Milking Nigerians

Photo Credit: Michael & Ulrike Garwood. First Fleet Nigerians

Nigerian Dwarf Goats produce the highest quality goats milk of all goats. Their milk contains the highest butterfat, milk solids, and protein content which makes it perfect for: Cheese, Yoghurt, Icecream, Buttermilk, Kefir, Butter, Fudge and Soap.

The fat content of cow and goat milk is similar, however, the fat globules in goat milk are smaller which makes it easier for your body to digest. Only about 2% of goats milk is curd, in contrast to about 10% in cow milk and goat milk has a lower amount of lactose than cow milk sometimes making it an option for those that react to lactose.

There are also fewer allergenic proteins in goats milk which means less inflammation for your body. Those that are intolerant of cows milk lack the ability to digest the A1 casein protein but goats milk contains only A2 casein.

Goats milk is also actually higher in calcium and fatty acids than cows milk but it’s lower in cholesterol. With all these benefits it’s no wonder that so many people are turning to keep Nigerian Dwarf goats for their milk!   Learn more about milking Nigerians >.

Before you get started

The three most important things to do prior to making a final decision on owning, milking or breeding Nigerian Dwarf goats are firstly contact some NDGSA breeders in your area and speak with them about what you will need to consider and know. They will willingly share their knowledge to make sure you are well prepared to welcome your new Nigerian goats. Next you need to make sure that your local council will allow you to keep goats on your property.  Then, if you don’t already have one, you will need a Property Identification Code (PIC)

You can apply for a PIC number by clicking on your state below.

New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, South Australia, Western Australia, Northern Territory, Australian Capital Territory

 

JOIN US!

We welcome and include everyone that has an interest in and fallen in love with the
Nigerian Dwarf breed. Pet owners through to breeders and dairy producers are all welcome
and catered for. We are here to educate, share knowledge, expertise and our
enthusiasm with you for the Nigerian Dwarf breed.