The global dairy goat industry is expanding rapidly. In addition to healthy and nutritious dairy products, dairy goats provide sustainable livelihoods, especially in resource-limited areas.
While most of the world's goat milk production and consumption occurs in Asia, the most organized market for goat milk is found in Europe, especially in France.
The Mediterranean region is the largest producer of goat's milk and cheese, outside of India, accounting for 18% of global production. India with 22%, produces the largest volume of goat’s milk among all countries but primarily raises dual-purpose goats (meat and milk).
In this article, we will explore and highlight the key characteristics of the 10 main goat breeds known for their milk production.
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The Saanen is widely recognized as the world's best developed and highest milk-producing goat breed. It has been compared to the Holstein Friesian dairy cattle breed, because of their high level of daily milk yield and relatively low level of milk fat content.
Originating in the Saanen Valley, in Switzerland, its annual milk production ranges from 300 to 2000 kg in 150-300 days of lactation depending on the country, with an average of 1285 kg.
Its milk is sold and consumed as fluid milk, but is also used to make popular yogurt, as well as soft and aged hard cheeses. In some markets, it is, legally blended, with sheep or cow milk for of yogurt and cheese production.
With the same origin as the previous breed, Toggenberg is the oldest known dairy goat breed. Although they produce less milk than the Saanen breed, they are recognized for their well-formed udders and consistent production over extended periods. They yield around 740 kg of milk per lactation and this yield is improved if they can range extensively on a variety of forage. The fat content is 3.5% and also has a good protein content of 2.9%.
They are widely adaptable but prefer cooler conditions.
At the opposite end of production is, the Nubian breed with lower milk production but with a higher level of solids, including fat, making this milk ideal for yogurt and cheese.
Originated in the British Isles from cross-breeding between traditional native prick-eared British goats and a mixed population of large lop-eared goats imported from India.
The main identifying feature of Nubians is the head, with a convex profile and long drooping ears. It adapts well to hot climates.
The breed produces about 3.9 kg of milk per day, with an average fat content of about 4.8%.
As the name suggests, the Alpine breed originates from the French Alps.
Despite its origin, it is one of the best breeds produced in India. This breed is known for its excellent milking ability. They have long horns curved backwards and their ears are erect.
Females Alpine goat produce 950 kg of milk per lactation period, which lasts an average of 150 days. The fat content of milk is only 3.4%.
The breed was initially called the Swiss Alpine but in 1977, the name Oberhasli was adopted, and registration records were separated from the Alpines.
Originating in Switzerland, they can produce up to 907.19 kg of milk over 265 days, although the average is around 748.43 kg.
They are usually healthy although they are prone to infection in humid weather, so they need to be monitored in these conditions.
Lamancha goats are perhaps the most distinctive goat breed, easily recognizable by their very short ear. They are valued for their people-loving temperament and the ability to adapt well to different environments and climates.
Lamancha produces an average of over 1000 kg of milk per lactation (275–306 days). Butterfat contente of averages 3.9%, in some cases can reach as high as 8%. This goat milk production was originally developed for long lactation with up to four years between freshenings.
Small in size but with a high milk production, the Nigerian Dwarf is well known. Originating from West Africa, these goats are valued for their friendly demeanor, and for nutritive creamy milk source that is greatly sought after by discerning consumers.
The Nigerian Dwarf was originally bred for show and as a companion animal, only later was considered as a dairy animal. Their adaptability to diverse climates and management systems makes them an attractive choice for a wide range of farmers.
This goat produce an average milk production ranging from 378 to 567 liters per lactation with an impressive butterfat content of 6% to 10%.
Indian domestic goat breed is originating from Uttar Pradesh. Jamnapari goats are generally large animals with curved nose similar to parrot and both male and female have horns. This breed produces between 360 - 540 kg of milk in its lactation period of 250 days. The highest daily milk yields per day is 3.8 kg.
Sable goats, developed from the Saanen breed, are known for their richly colored coats. Originally from the United States, Sables have gained popularity due to their versatility, whether raised in extensive pastures or in more confined spaces, they demonstrate good productive results.
With an average milk production ranging from 681 to 1,134 liters per lactation and a butterfat content of 3.5% to 4%, Sables provide a substantial contribution to the dairy industry.
Breed originating from Spain, with morphological characteristics that allow high production in grazing systems. They withstand a large temperature range, typical of the locations where they are produced. For this reason they have little seasonality.
With a milk production of 575kg per lactation period of 274 days, with 4.9% fat and 3.4% protein, its milk is intended for the production of typical goat cheeses in the south of the country.
Goat milk, known for its digestibility and nutritional benefits, continues to gain market appeal, both for direct consumption and for the other dairy products.
The breeds mentioned above offer a variety of options, each with unique characteristics and contributions to the dairy industry.
When selecting the breed you will work with, consider your specific needs, climate, and resources to make an informed decision that will lead to a thriving and productive goat herd.
References
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