The Boer, a goat breed developed in South Africa, is perhaps the most popular breed used for meat production. Its name comes from an Afrikaans word boer, which means farmer. Known for being versatile on different terrains, these goats are commonly used for land maintenance and controlling bush encroachment on grasslands and woodlands. A fast growth-rate and high fertility are the characteristics that set this breed apart in the meat goat industry.
The Anglo-Nubian or simply Nubian is a breed of large domestic goats bred for milk and meat. Originated in England, these multi-purpose animals are distinguished by their large, drooping ears. They are widely distributed across the world and are exported to over sixty countries for their high productivity.
The Saanen, named after the Saanen Valley in the Bernese Highlands, is the largest domestic goat breed of Switzerland recognized by its pale skin, erect ears, and a somewhat concave or straight face. It is exported throughout the world and used for producing several local variants, including the Banat White, Russian White, Israeli Saanen, French Saanen, and British Saanen. Because of its light skin coloration, it is sensitive to direct sunlight and thrives in cooler conditions.
The Lamancha, also known as American Lamancha, is a breed of famous dairy goats easily distinguishable by their unique small ears. They have rapidly gained popularity for their high milking ability and loving temperament, not only in the US but also internationally. Because of their distinctive appearance, Lamanchas are used as breeding and show animals. Their intelligence and friendly nature make them a suitable pack or cart animals, as well as loving companions.
Alert and graceful, the Alpines are a domestic breed of medium- to large-sized dairy goats known for their outstanding milk output, mild temperament, and long lactation period. They are quite hardy and can adapt to any climate, maintaining superior production and good health. The French Alpines are larger and slenderer than the Swiss Alpine goats.
Oberhasli is a type of American dairy goat which descended from the Chamois Colored Goat from the Oberhasli district in central Switzerland. The breed was initially known as Swiss Alpine until purebred herds were developed and maintained. The Swiss Alpine variety interbred with other types of Alpine goats.
The Chamois Colored Goat is a breed of mountain goats that was developed in Switzerland. These are domesticated, dual-purpose goats that are popular for their good quality meat and tasty milk (and other dairy products). Known for their gentle disposition and good looks, these animals are also reared simply as house/farm pets in many places.
The Charnequeira Goat is an ancient breed of domesticated Portuguese goats. They are primarily red-colored, dual-purpose goats that are primarily raised for both milk and meat. These animals are easy to maintain since they require no specific housing in the farms, and can graze for their own food.
The Changthangi Goat is a breed of domesticated cashmere goats that are found and reared mostly in India. The breed got its name from a region called Changthang in the state of Jammu and Kashmir, where they are found. These goats have contributed to the country’s economy and are also easy to keep since they are reared under an open grazing system.
The Aspromonte Goat is a breed of domesticated goats that was developed in the south of Italy, and is still limited to the nearby regions only. These are dual-purpose goats, and are reared both for milk and meat. The Aspromontes are known for their nutritious milk especially suitable for cheese production, and for good quality meat. At present, the population of these goats is estimated to be around 3444.