Pygmy Goats: Breed Profile
The small, stocky African dwarf goat popular with youth exhibitors.
Pygmy goats descend from West African dwarf goats and were imported to the United States in the twentieth century for zoos and research. They are small, stocky goats in many colors and became popular as pets and show animals.
Purpose
Pygmies are raised as pets, for showing and sometimes for meat.
Where the breed stands today
The breed is popular, with associations and shows.
What to look for in a Pygmy project animal
Look for a compact, well-proportioned body, correct legs and a friendly temperament. Have a knowledgeable adult, a breeder or your veterinarian look the animal over before you buy, and compare more than one seller.
Showing Pygmy at 4-H and FFA
Rare and landrace goats are usually shown in showmanship, Other Breeds classes or breed-specific events. Rules differ by fair, so read your show book before you commit.
Pros
- Small size is easy for younger exhibitors
- Friendly and popular
- Dedicated Pygmy shows exist
- Rare goats draw visitors to the barn and make a memorable record book and display.
- Goats are small and manageable, which suits beginners with good adult support.
Cons
- Not used for market classes at many shows
- Hoof and parasite care are still needed
- Fencing is still required
- Many county shows have no class for rare goat breeds, so you may enter an Other Breeds class or showmanship only.
- Goats are climbers and escape artists, and they need strong fencing and shelter.
Caring for your project
Plan for regular feeding, hoof trimming, parasite checks and secure fencing. Keep a record book from the first day, and write down feed, health care and costs, because judges and buyers both ask about them.
Getting started
A good first step is to visit a show in your area and watch the classes for your species. Talk with exhibitors, the superintendent and your club advisor about what they look for, and ask whether the show has a class for Pygmy. Many students find a mentor this way, and a mentor can save you from the most expensive beginner mistakes.
Planning your budget
Add up the purchase price, feed, bedding, veterinary care, entry fees, travel and equipment before you commit. Ask your advisor what a typical project costs in your county, and plan for the chance that the animal will not qualify for the sale. A realistic budget keeps the project fun for the student and fair to the family.
Show-day tips
Arrive early so the animal and the exhibitor can settle before the class. Check the show book for the class name, age limits and check-in time, and bring your paperwork, feed, water and cleaning supplies. Judges notice calm, well-prepared exhibitors, so keep the animal clean, stay quiet in the ring and answer questions honestly. Afterward, ask the judge for feedback, because a few minutes of advice can shape next year's project.
Learning from the ring
Win or lose, every class teaches something. Write down what the judge said, compare notes with other exhibitors and talk with your advisor about one thing to improve before the next show. Students who treat each show as practice usually improve fastest, and they tend to enjoy the project more.
Questions to ask a breeder
- Are the animal and her parents registered, and can I see the papers?
- How old is she, and what has she been fed?
- How has the herd been managed for parasites and disease?
- Has she been handled and trained to lead?
- Is she registered, and does my show have a class for her?
Bottom line
Pygmy goats are a friendly, small-scale choice for beginners.
To see how the contests work, read How Showmanship Is Judged. Suppliers, vets and feed stores near you are listed at agriculture.directory. For a lighter look at fair life, farm.fm has Goat on the Roof Again, and the Livestock Conservancy tracks the status of rare breeds.