I found this site surfing the web. I am currently researching the nigerian dwarf breed of goat in hopes to add a few to our farm in the future. I am looking for advise, info, pros/cons on these adorable lil goats. I am also looking for reputable breeders that I may connect with in my area. I am looking forward to meeting new people!
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I was just going to post if anyone knew of any place where one could get a hands on seminar of sorts. This is awesome!! Going to check my calendar and get back with you.
Be sure to check out the "Photo" section of this site for pictures of housing. Some people on here have done some very creative things!
I have a Goats 101 class coming up June 23. It's free for anyone who buys goats from me; otherwise it's $20. Info is here: http://www.antiquityoaks.com/classes.html
If you are really interested in a doe out of Pearl or Jane, you can reserve them before they're born.
Thank you Deborah!! I think I have decided on the nigerian dwarf breed of goat. When I am ready for goats I will be looking to probably add two doelings or possibly a doe and doeling. I am doing more reading and research and figuring out how to make an area for goats. I will keep checking your website for updates.
Hello again, and welcome!
I thought that all of my doelings were reserved already, but then I realized I had two does left to kid, so I might have more! I do have a couple of bucklings left. My kidding schedule is here, if you want to take a look:
http://nigeriandwarfdairygoats.com/kidding.html
The doelings are spoken for; I'm just waiting for deposits to arrive, and then I'll update the list.
Kaitlyn's advice is good. I didn't have any wethers when I started. I never had any intention of ever owning a buck, but I haven't had a pregnant doe for nearly 1 and 1/2 years! A wether can help that. (because they help you determine heat better.) The window of opportunity for breeding is VERY slim. I kept missing it. I personally decided to buy a buck. Since I don't house my bucks with my does,
1. because pen breeding (where everyone is all together, and you might miss witnessing the deed) means unknown due dates, which can lead to death of kids or dams if there are complications that could have been avoided had you known when to expect to be there for birthing.
2. because bucks STINK and there are rumors (I don't know how true) that housing bucks with does can cause the buck smell to permeate and flavor your milk.
I needed to get more than one boy. I figured since I was FEEDING two boys, they might as well be two boys I could USE for breeding, so I have two bucks. Some folks get one buck and a wether, which also works, but I didn't see the point in feeding a "dead weight" mouth when both of the extra mouths could be "earning" their keep. lol
Thanks Kailyn! Anything I do I like to know what I am getting into so I like to check it out first. I have been around the block and unfortuneately it seem s that there can be some unscrupulous people out there if they think you are new and know nothing. Thanks for the link I will check it out. I have the Storey's Guide to raising dairy goats and have read it cover to cover, but have not retained it all...lol!
Thanks Rachel! I need to get better aquainted with thios site so I can absorb more info. I live in what I consider Southern Illinois about 45 minutes southeast of St. Louis, MO. Goat addiction...lol!
Rachel Whetzel said:
It's nice to hear of someone actually doing research BEFORE they go ahead and buy the animal(s). And also not just looking for any breeder but actually one with integrity.
To start off, make sure you buy at least two. Goats are herd animals and need the companionship of other goats, not just other livestock. I started off with a doe and her two doelings but many start with a doe and a wether. If you are interested in the milk and will be breeding them but not ready for a buck, I would purchase a wether. I am retaining one this year for the purpose of detecting when my does are in standing heat. It will make my life easier since I'm not looking to purchase a buck anytime soon. There is so much information about ND's and you will be able to find just about all of it on here but I'll also recommend the site http://fiascofarm.com/goats/index.htm. Just scroll down a bit and you'll find quite a bit of information. There are a lot of visuals which were very helpful to me. The book, Storey's Guide To Raising Dairy Goats, is also a good resource.
I live in NC so I can't refer you to anyone locally concerning who to buy from, but since Deborah also lives in Illinois, I would start with her! ;)
welcome to the group!! The Forum is set up by category so you should be able to find the topics you want to know about and find information there, and if you have specific questions, you can use the search feature in the Forums too. If you have other questions, just ask!! Where do you live? That would help us help you find a breeder in your area. :) We'll all be happy to help you get a Nigerian Goat addiction started! lol