Dairy Goats

Additional Animal Information Wild Animals Types of Goats Pictures of Farm Animals

Dairy goats are a group of domestic goats raised for the high quality milk production.

According to USDA statistics published in October, 2008, the goat milk products industry sontinues to grow in the United States.

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.