Quick Reference Buying Guide
Disqualifying Colours/Markings
The first thing you will notice when buying is the colours of the goat.
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Pygmy Goats come in all different colours but there are a few things to look out for;
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Swiss type markings on faces are a sign the pygmy goat you are buying is descended from large dairy goats, these goats can not be registered as their heritage is questionable.
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Pure White Pygmy goats are also not allowed and will not be able to be registered with any club in the UK or Ireland
Images above taken from Nigerian Dwarf Colours Website
Teat Defeats
When buying you should always check teats on both Males and females, they should have two and be uniform in size.
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Teat defects include, fish tail teats, multiple teats , multiple orphices , anything other than two equal sized teats is undesirable.
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If you are buying a kid be aware that teat defects can appear at anytime within the first year and sometimes even after this.
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When buying kids it is advisable to check over both parents where possible.
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Goats with teat defects cant be registered in the herdbook and can only be shown in pet classes at shows.
Image from Look Out Point Ranch Website
Jaw Defects
Another thing which is very important to check for is jaw defects; Overshot, Undershot and Twisted.
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The front teeth should meet the dental pad in goats with a correct jaw.
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These are very important to check for because goats with a jaw problem wont be eligible for registration except in the Pet Record.
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This is because Jaw defects can potentially cause health problems and are a genetic fault so will be passed onto offspring.
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Goats will Jaw defects should not be bred from, correct goats with parents with jaw defects should also not be bred from.
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When managed correctly goats with jaw defects can make fantastic pets and live happy and healthy lives.
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Image from American Fainting Goat Organisation Website
Other Defects
Other things to look out for when buying goats are;
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Pendulous ears /Roman Nose : these are not allowed in pygmy goats and are a sign they are descended from boer/nubian type goats.
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Hermaphrodite, although a rare occasion it can happen and we advise to check genitalia when buying new stock.
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Polled/ genetically hornless. Pygmy goats all over the world are gentically horned therefore kids/adults cannot be registered with us if they are polled.
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Uneven Testicles ; when buying a breeding buck check him over thoroughly to ensure his testicles are even in size and shape
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If you arent sure on anything featured in our quick reference buying guide please do not hesitate to contact us northernirelandpgc@gmail.com
