All About
Pygmy Goats
P
By Susan Seiler
ygmy goats came from the West Coast of
Africa and were first imported to the United
States in 1959 by Heinz Ruhe for the Oakland
Bay Zoo. On delivery each Pygmy was $3,000.
There were about 14 animals in the first shipment.
They were intended to be market animals
and have become noted as dual purpose animals
raised on small acreages for both milk and meat.
They have dwarf-like proportions of short legs, a
short but large head and lots of width. They stand
between 15 ½ and 22 ½ inches high and weigh
between 45 and 65 pounds. They live between
10 and 15 years. The predominant coloration
is a grizzled, or agouti pattern. Other colors
include black and various shades of caramel, with
characteristic black stockings and a dorsal stripe.
Pygmies are hardy, alert and playful, goodnatured and gregarious. They are easy to maintain
making them the ideal pet or hobby. They are
herd animals and are happier when they have a
buddy. They make great 4-H and FFA projects
because they do not require special equipment to
raise and show. They are not a terminal project
so the young exhibitor is not required to sell the
animal at auction at the end of the year. However,
if that is a stipulation for having a pygmy project
animal there is a small stock auction at the
County Fair.
Does are female goats, bucks are breeding
male goats, and wethers are neutered male goats.
For the individual seeking a pet, or youth project,
wethers are usually the best option. They are
similar in appearance to does, but have a more
consistent personality. Does