Here is some basic information on the many mini goat breeds available - and ALL of these great little breeds are available here in Alaska!
Pygmies are popular as pets, 4H projects, show and breeding animals.They come in three basic color patterns; agouti (gray or brown, in a salt & pepper shade with dark "trim"), caramel (from creamy white to dark reddish brown, but always with darker "trim" and light, vertical striping on the legs) and black (either solid black or black with traditional white markings). Pygmy fanciers across the country as well as in the NPGA are struggling to clarify and come to terms with the true Breed Standard for this friendly little goat and bring the modern Pygmy closer to that active, energectic ideal. A fat Pygmy may LOOK ideal, but an IDEAL Pygmy should not be fat. For more information about Pygmy goats, you are invited to visit Spring Promise Pygmies in Wasilla, Alaska.
Nigerian Dwarfs are true dairy goats in spite of their small size. They have gained acceptance in the ADGA and are now able to be shown at ADGA sanctioned shows as well as AGS, NDGA and ANDDA shows. Some of our AK NDs are proving to be competitive against their larger counterparts and do equally well in the milk pail in comparision to their size. They come in literally any color or marking patterns.
"Kinders" began many years ago as a cross between a Pygmy buck and several Nubian does. They are now considered to be a very productive midium small dairy goat with plenty of hybrid vigor. These practical little milkers are gaining in popularity.
Pygoras originated from crossing Pygmy bucks with Angora does. They are considered an official breed now and are highly prized by hand spinners for their fiber. Pygoras come in a variety of colors and three different fleece types. They have the coveted Pygmy personality - with LOTS of fur.
Most goats handle the sometimes extreme temperatures in Alaska fine as long as they have adequate food and housing. The addition of a LGD; in this case a Great Pyrenees, can add to their safety and to an owner's peace of mind. When raised as part of the herd and properly trained, a good LGD is as important as good fencing in some parts of Alaska. Most LGDs are excellent with these tiny goats - as you can see, this one is easily three times their size!
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