Getting Started with Nigerian Dwarf Goats: Essential Tips for New Owners
If you’re thinking about adding Nigerian Dwarf goats to your homestead, you’re in for a fun and rewarding experience! These small, friendly dairy goats are perfect for beginners, whether you’re looking for fresh milk, weed control, or just adorable farm companions. Before you bring home your first goats, it’s important to set up the right environment and understand their care needs.
In this post, we’ll cover everything you need to know about raising Nigerian Dwarf goats, from setting up fencing to proper nutrition and health care.
Why Choose Nigerian Dwarf Goats?
Nigerian Dwarf goats are one of the most popular small dairy goat breeds in the U.S. They’re loved for their:
Compact size – They stand about 17-23 inches tall, making them easy to handle.
High milk production – Despite their size, they produce rich, creamy milk with high butterfat content.
Friendly temperament – These goats are social, affectionate, and great for families.
Adaptability – They do well in both small backyard setups and larger homesteads.
If you’re looking for the best goats for a small farm, Nigerian Dwarfs are a top choice!
Setting Up Your Goat Shelter and Fencing
Before bringing home your goats, make sure you have a secure shelter and fencing in place. Goats are curious escape artists, so planning ahead is key.
Goat Housing Requirements
Your goats need a safe, dry place to sleep and escape from bad weather. Here are the basics:
Size – A small herd of 2-3 goats can be comfortable in a 10x10-foot shelter.
Ventilation – Good airflow prevents respiratory issues.
Bedding – Use straw or pine shavings for warmth and cleanliness.
Best Fencing for Nigerian Dwarf Goats
Goats love to climb and squeeze through gaps, so sturdy fencing is essential.
Consider:
Goat-proof fencing – Use woven wire fencing at least 4 feet tall to prevent escapes.
Electric fencing – A hot wire along the top can help deter climbing.
Secure gates – Goats learn how to open latches, so use goat-proof locks.
Keeping them contained ensures their safety from predators and prevents them from getting into your garden!
What Do Nigerian Dwarf Goats Eat?
A proper Nigerian Dwarf goat diet includes a mix of hay, grain, and minerals. Here’s a breakdown of what they need:
Essential Goat Feed
High-quality hay – Alfalfa or grass hay should make up most of their diet. Personally, I feed 70/30 alfalfa to orchard grass to my does. **DO NOT FEED ALFALFA TO BUCK OR WETHERS** Feed orchard grass or Timothy hay to bucks and wethers.
Goat pellets – Some owners supplement with goat feed, but it should not be their primary diet. Most recommend only feeding pellets to pregnant or lactating goats.
Fresh browse – Goats love to graze on brush, weeds, and small trees.
Supplements and Minerals
Goat mineral – Choose a loose mineral mix specifically for goats. I recommend Sweetlick or Purina. The rest are mostly salt.
Baking soda – Helps prevent bloating and digestive issues.
Clean, fresh water – Always have fresh water available, especially in hot weather.
Proper nutrition ensures healthy Nigerian Dwarf goats with strong immune systems and good milk production.
Basic Nigerian Dwarf Goat Care
How Many Goats Should You Get?
Goats are herd animals, so never get just one. A minimum of two goats will keep them happy and stress-free.
Routine Goat Health Care
Hoof trimming – Every 4-6 weeks to prevent overgrowth and hoof issues.
Deworming – Check for parasites and only deworm WHEN NEEDED. Do not deworm on a schedule.
Vaccinations – CDT shots (for enterotoxemia and tetanus) are commonly recommended.
Check-ups – Monitor for signs of illness, such as weight loss, lethargy, or bloating.
Keeping up with regular goat health maintenance ensures a long and happy life for your herd.
Do You Need a Buck? (Breeding Considerations)
If you want baby goats (kids) or fresh milk, you’ll need to breed your does. However, keeping a buck comes with extra responsibilities:
Strong smell – Bucks have a musky scent, especially during breeding season.
Separate housing – Bucks should be kept apart from does except for breeding.
Aggression – Some bucks can be territorial or harder to manage.
Many homesteaders borrow a buck, use a stud service, or use artificial inseminations instead of keeping one full-time.
Are Nigerian Dwarf Goats Right for You?
Adding Nigerian Dwarf goats to your homestead can be a rewarding experience, whether you’re interested in goat milk for soap making, homestead dairy production, or just fun farm pets. With the right setup and care, these goats will thrive and bring plenty of joy to your farm.
Are you thinking about getting Nigerian Dwarf goats? Let me know in the comments—I’d love to hear about your homesteading journey!
