Pygmy

Small but heavily built, the Pygmy goat is descended from West African dwarf-type goats and was developed in Europe and North America as a compact meat, exhibition, zoo, and companion breed. It has a deep barrel, short legs, broad head, upright ears, and a heavier build than the dairy-type Nigerian Dwarf. Registered Pygmies are commonly seen in agouti patterns, black, caramel, gray, and pied markings, and both sexes may carry horns unless disbudded when young.

Pygmy goat care still follows normal goat management, despite the breed's size. They need secure fencing, a dry shelter, browse or hay, goat minerals, hoof trimming, and protection from obesity caused by too much grain. Wethers and does are popular for small farms and educational programs because they are manageable and social, but bucks can be strong-smelling and require suitable facilities. Breeders watch kidding closely, select for sound legs and bites, and avoid treating mini goats as indoor pets; they are herd animals that do best with another goat and regular outdoor space.

Colors: Agouti (Black/Brown/White Mixed), All Black, All Brown, All White, Belted, Black, Black Agouti, Black and White, Black and White Pied, Black with White Markings, Brown, Brown Agouti, Brown and White, Brown and White Pied, Brown with White Markings, Buckskin, Caramel with Black Points, Caramel with Brown Points, Chamoisee, Cou Blanc, Cou Clair, Cream, Dark Caramel, Fawn, Gold, Gray Agouti, Light Caramel, Moonspotted, Mottled, Pinto, Red, Red and White, Roan, Silver Agouti, Spotted, Sundgau, Swiss Marked, Tan, Tri-Colored, White, White Agouti