Saanen Goats: Breed Profile
The white Swiss dairy goat with high milk production.
Saanen goats come from the Saanen valley in Switzerland and are white or cream with upright ears. They are one of the most productive dairy breeds and were imported to the United States in the early twentieth century.
Purpose
Saanens are raised for milk and are known for large production and gentle temperament.
Where the breed stands today
The breed is common, with an association and many shows.
What to look for in a Saanen project animal
Look for a white or cream coat, a strong frame, a well-attached udder and sound legs. Have a knowledgeable adult, a breeder or your veterinarian look the animal over before you buy, and compare more than one seller.
Showing Saanen at 4-H and FFA
Dairy goats are judged on dairy character, udder, structure and milk-related traits, plus showmanship. Rules differ by fair, so read your show book before you commit.
Pros
- High milk production
- Gentle temperament
- Strong show classes
- Dairy goat shows have junior classes, showmanship and milking contests, and goats are small enough for younger exhibitors.
- A doe can be bred and milked, which teaches records, dairy handling and product skills.
Cons
- White skin is sensitive to sun and needs shade
- Stains show easily and need careful grooming
- Large size needs strong fencing
- Does must be milked daily once they freshen, so there is a long-term commitment.
- Goats are climbers and escape artists, and they need strong fencing and shelter.
Caring for your project
Plan for daily feeding, fresh water, hoof trimming and parasite monitoring. 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 Saanen. 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?
- Has she been handled, milked and trained to stand on a stand?
- What are the herd’s health, parasite and CAE/CL testing practices?
- Will she be eligible for the classes at my show?
Bottom line
Saanens are a high-producing, calm choice with a need for shade.
To see how the contests work, read How Breeding Classes and Market Classes Work. Suppliers, vets and feed stores near you are listed at agriculture.directory. For a lighter look at fair life, farm.fm has Goat Becomes Mayor of Small Town After Debate Ends in Headbutt, and the Livestock Conservancy tracks the status of rare breeds.