Dairy Goats
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Dairy goats are a group of domestic goats raised for the high quality milk production.
According to USDA statistics, the goat milk industry continues to grow.
Hard and soft goat cheeses lead the list, accounting for seventy-five percent of total goat milk production. Goat's milk makes up twenty four-percent of the production, with yogurt and other products rounding out the list.
Five of the six major breeds of dairy goats raised in the United States, LaManchas, Alpines, Oberhaslis, Togenburgs, and Saanens, are of European origin.
The most popular breed, the Nubian goat, shown in the top picture, traces its roots to Africa and Asia. It is easily recognized by its long, floppy ears.
© 2005 Patricia A. Michaels.