How to Identify Goat Breeds

By eHow Pets Editor

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First domesticated nearly 10,000 years ago, goats are one of the most popular domesticated animals. With their wide-ranging appetites, goats have set themselves apart from the pack of other barnyard animals. However, telling one breed of goat apart from another can be a bit tricky. Here are some tips to help you with this process.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy
Step1
Know that there are six general breeds of goat. These are the Nubian, Alpine, Saanens, Toggenburgs, La Mancha and Oberhasli breeds.
Step2
Check for these characteristics of the most popular breed, the Nubian: solid brown coloring, wide, droopy ears and a large body.
Step3
Check for these characteristics of the Alpine breed: a black or brown and white coat (colors will vary widely), erect ears and a curved nose.
Step4
Check for these characteristics of the Saanens breed: all-white fur, forward-facing ears and a friendly demeanor.
Step5
Check for these characteristics of the Toggenburgs breed: a brown coat and white markings on the head and hind quarters.
Step6
Check for these characteristics of the easily recognizable La Mancha breed: very short ears, white markings on front of the head and forelegs and a solid build.
Step7
Check for these characteristics of the Oberhasli breed: a reddish-brown coat and black stripes on the nose and head.

Tips & Warnings

  • Other common breeds are the Pygmy, Boer, Cashmere and Angola breeds. Each of these, as well as the main breeds, is usually bred with a specific purpose in mind, such as producing milk, cheese or fiber.

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eHow Article: How to Identify Goat Breeds

eHow Pets Editor

eHow Pets Editor

Category: Pets

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