Boer Goats: Breed Profile

The Boer goat is the most familiar meat goat in the United States. Typical animals have a white body, a brown or red head, long drooping ears and a heavy, muscular build. The name comes from the Afrikaans word for farmer.

History

The breed was developed in South Africa in the twentieth century, where farmers selected local goats for meat production, hardiness and growth. Boer goats were exported to other countries, and American interest grew in the 1990s. Breed associations in the United States now register purebred and percentage animals, and Boers are the foundation of many commercial meat goat herds.

Purpose

Boers are raised for meat. They are known for fast growth, good muscling and heavy bodies compared with other goats. Breeders also use Boer bucks over other breeds to improve growth and carcass quality in kids.

Where the breed stands today

Boers are common and widely available. Many show goats are Boer or percentage Boer crosses, and some breeders specialize in animals for the show ring. Other meat breeds, such as Kiko, Spanish and Savanna, are used in many herds because of hardiness and parasite resistance.

Showing Boer Goats at 4-H and FFA

Pros

• Standard market goat. Many shows have market goat classes designed around the Boer type.
• Premium sale eligibility. Market goats are widely accepted in junior sales.
• Many breeders. Show-quality kids are available in most regions.
• Good for beginners. Goats are smaller than cattle, with lower feed and housing costs.
• Strong showmanship classes. Goat showmanship is competitive and educational.

Cons

• Heavy competition. Show-ring Boer goats can be expensive, and top animals attract high prices.
• Health challenges. Goats are prone to internal parasites, especially the barber pole worm, and need careful management.
• Fencing and escapes. Goats can climb and squeeze through gaps.
• Fitting pressure. Many exhibitors invest in feeding programs and conditioning.
• Market swings. Prices for market goats can vary by region and season.

What to look for in a Boer project animal

Judges look for a goat with a long, level body, a strong topline, a deep rib and heavy muscling through the loin and hind quarter. Legs should be straight and strong with good pasterns. Choose an animal with a clean, bright eye and a clean, firm coat. Because parasites are a major issue, look for animals that are alert, with pink inner eyelids rather than pale, which can signal anemia.

Questions to ask a breeder

• What are the kid's sire and dam, and are they registered?
• How has the herd been managed for internal parasites?
• What is the kid's birth date, current weight and growth rate?
• How has she been handled and halter trained?
• Is she eligible for the classes and sale at my show?

Good breeders welcome these questions and will tell you what they know.

Bottom line

A Boer goat is a practical first livestock project with a clear path through market classes and the premium sale. It is a good choice if you want a manageable animal with plenty of support.

Read about Showmanship to prepare for the ring. agriculture.directory lists feed stores and veterinarians, and farm.fm has a lighthearted goat story in You Can't Milk a Goat for Free.