Sunflower Farm Goat Herd
We work hard to keep our herd of 31 goats happy & healthy. In 2011, the whole herd tested negative for common goat diseases including CAE and Brucellosis since then we test at least a third of the herd each year and have always had negative results. They get lots of second cut hay, browse freely in their pasture and around the farm, enjoy grain at milking time, and are given free choice minerals and fresh water at least twice a day. Most importantly, they get lots of love. None of our goats are used for meat. When a goat calls to us from the pasture or barn, we know who it is by their voice. The goats are an extended part of our family. Please come by the farm to meet them anytime!
Nigerian Dwarf Goats
The Nigerian Dwarf is a miniature dairy goat of West African origin. Nigerian Dwarf goats are enjoying a rise in popularity due to their small size, colorful markings and dairy characteristics. Their small stature means they do not require as much space or feed as their larger dairy goat counterparts and their gentle and friendly personalities make them good companion pets. The milk is also higher in butterfat and has a sweeter taste. Nigerians are easy to handle; even for small children. Nigerian Dwarfs are considered rare by the American Livestock Breeds Conservancy. The U.S. Department of Agriculture has also approved the Nigerian Dwarf Goat as a livestock dairy goat, which makes them eligible for youth 4H and FFA projects.
The Breed
A healthy Nigerian Dwarf doe can produce a surprising amount of sweet milk for her small size - up to two quarts per day or more. In addition, Nigerian Dwarf milk is higher in butterfat (6-10%) and higher in protein than milk from most dairy goat breeds. Many Nigerian Dwarf owners raise their goats for milk production but others raise them for the pleasure and companionship these little caprines bring to their lives.
--Nigerian Dwarf Goat Association