Saanen Goat: Characteristics, Facts & Breed Information
The Saanen goat is a medium to large-sized breed of domestic goats that originated in the Saanen Valley of Switzerland. These goats are one of the largest dairy goats out there, that can produce a large amount of milk. That’s why a lot of people who want to start a goat milking production, always choose them or always keep them as an option. Keep reading to learn more about them.
History
Before it came to North America in 1904. The Saanen goats are domestic goats that were developed in the Saanen Valley of Switzerland, located in the southern part of the Canton of Bern, in western Switzerland.
Origin
The Saanen goats originated in Switzerland, where they are usually used for milk production.
Saanen Goat Characteristics
- They are medium to large-sized goats.
- Their colors are white, but sometimes biscuit colors can be seen.
- They may sometimes have black spots on their nose, their ears and their udders.
- Their ears are straight to upwards.
- They have long necks.
- They may be horned or hornless, but their general population is hornless.
- They have small-sized legs.
- Their udders can become very big in size.
- Their coats are short.
- The average height of their adult bucks is around 32 inches, while for their adult does they can get around 30 inches.
- The average weight of their adult bucks is around 170 pounds, while for their adult does they can get around 135 pounds.
- They produce a large amount of milk.
- They can adapt to different types of climates and environments.
- Their temperament is usually calm, sweet, friendly, and quiet.
Facts
- They can be domesticated.
- They originated in Switzerland.
- They love to stay in the shade and can’t tolerate the heat of sunlight.
- Their lifespan is 15 years.
- Their gestation period is 150 days.
- Their milk production per day is 1 1/2-3 gallons of milk.
- Their milk fat content is 3.3%.
- Their milk tastes bland and watery.
- Their breeding age is usually at the age of 7-8 months. This is the time when their bodies are now good for breeding.
- Their usual diets are hays, grasses, plants, grains, weeds, and shrubs.
- Their preferred habitats are regions with cold climates.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- They are easy to handle.
- They can produce a large amount of milk.
- They can also be used as pack goats.
- They can adapt to different types of climates and environments.
- They frequently give twins each time.
- They are disease resistant goats.
- Their hardiness is good.
- The quality of their meat is good.
- They have a longer lifespan.
- They are good for confinement.
Cons
- They are sensitive to the heat of sunlight.
- They have a tendency to burrow under fences.
- They have a low butterfat content.
- They need a lot of nutritional requirements.
- They also need additional care.
Uses
The Saanen goats are dairy goat breeds. So, that means they are usually used for milk production.
Breed Profile Information
| Breed Name | Saanen Goat |
| Other Name | None |
| Breed Purpose | Milk Production |
| Uses | Milk, Meat, Pets, Packing, and Show Goats |
| Size | Medium to Large |
| Height | Adult Bucks 32 inches, Adult Does 30 inches |
| Weight | Adult Bucks 170 pounds, Adult Does 135 pounds |
| Horns | Generally Don’t Have Horns |
| Climate Tolerance | All Climates |
| Colors | White |
| Life Expectancy | 15 years |
| Temperament | Calm, Friendly, Sweet, and Quiet |
| Good for Stall Fed | Yes |
| Milk Production Per Day | 1 1/2-3 gallons/day |
| Milk Fat Content | 3.3% |
| Rarity | Common |
| Country/Place of Origin | Switzerland |
Final Thoughts
The Saanen goats are medium to large-sized dairy goats that are good for milk production. If you want to buy these goats, you can buy them at the average price of $100-$300 per goat, but their price may go up depending on the situation.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What is the Saanen goat used for? The Saanen goat is normally used for their milk. This is where they are good at because they are dairy goats.
Are Saanen goats friendly? Yes, Saanen goats are friendly goats. That’s why they are one of the favorites to choose from, by a lot of goat owners and goat keepers out there.
How much milk does a Saanen goat produce per day? 1 1/2-3 gallons of milk per day.
Are Saanen goats good for milk? Yes, Saanen goats are good for milk. In fact, they are one of the best goats to choose from, to be used for milk production.
How much does a Saanen goat cost? They cost around $100-$300 per goat, but their price may change depending on the situation.
How long does a Saanen goat live? They can live for 15 years or more.
