Here, we’ll discover a little more about these pint-sized ruminants, including how big they grow and what they look like. We’ll also take a look at the typical diet of a pygmy goat, as well as what typical pygmy goat behavior looks like. We’ll find out just how long pygmy goats live and discover their most common health problems. Read on to learn more about pygmy goats and their lifespan!
Pygmy Goat Background
Pygmy goats are among the smallest goats on the planet. That small size makes them ideal for small-scale farm-steads, backyard farms, and people looking for hooved pets. These small goats tend to have sweet temperaments, and they’re relatively easy to take care of.
Size and Appearance
Formerly known as Cameroon dwarf goats, pygmy goats originated in Africa, where they were bred for their meat. Pygmy goats grow to a maximum height of just two feet, with some standing as short as 15 inches tall. Males are a little bigger than females and can weigh up to 70 pounds. Female pygmy goats may weigh as little as 35 pounds, which makes them smaller and lighter than many dogs. Pygmy goats come in many colors, including white, tan, every conceivable shade of brown and gray, and even black. Many feature more than one color and may even have hair frosted in lighter or darker colors. All pygmy goats have short tails, and most have small, upright ears. Males feature backward-curving horns, while females have noticeable udders.
Diet and Behavior
If you’re wondering how long pygmy goats live, you’re probably also wondering what these animals eat. Pygmy goats, along with all goats, sheep, and cows, are ruminants. This means that their digestive systems are specially adapted to eat hard-to-digest foods, like leaves and grass. Domestic goats eat a combination of hay, straw, pellets, and other feed. Pygmy goats are known as intelligent, friendly, at times, playful farmyard companions. They’re not prone to separation anxiety but do best when there is at least one other goat around. Further, pygmy goats require plenty of stimulation; otherwise, they tend to get into trouble.
Pygmy Goat Lifespan
Thinking of getting a pygmy goat? You’re probably wondering: how long do pygmy goats live? The average pygmy goat lifespan is 10-15 years. As with all animals, their lifespan heavily depends on overall health, environmental conditions, diet, and care. The average pygmy goat lives to be about 12 years old.
Do Pygmy Goats Have Health Problems?
A pygmy goat’s lifespan is largely dependent on its overall health. Goats are particularly resilient to disease and illness, especially compared to other livestock animals. However, they need regular checkups, vaccinations, lice treatment, and hoof trimming. One common and easily avoidable health problem facing pygmy goats has to do with their hooves. Goats’ hooves keep growing, and for many pygmy goat owners, this means regular hoof trimming every 4-8 weeks. Additionally, pygmy goats require proper diet, nutrition, water, and shelter, in order to live long, healthy lives.
Are Pygmy Goats Good Pets?
Thinking about getting a pygmy goat as a pet? Well, you’re not alone. People the world over are turning to pygmy goats as the ideal, pint-sized companion. With their friendly, intelligent personalities and compact size, pygmy goats make an excellent choice as a pet — provided you’re prepared to take care of them. Pygmy goats are happiest living outside as long as they have adequate food and shelter, so you shouldn’t plan on getting one if you live in an apartment. For many, the choice to get a pygmy goat as a pet is a personal one. They may not be a good fit for you if you already have dogs or if you’ve never dealt with livestock before. But, if you think a pygmy goat just might be the companion you’ve always been waiting for, and you’re prepared to take care of one (or, more likely, a couple), then there’s no time like the present!
Do Pygmy Goats Need To Be Milked?
If you’re thinking about bringing home a pygmy goat but are worried about milking them, this part is for you. Luckily, female pygmy goats only need to be milked if they have a small kid (baby goat). Otherwise, you don’t need to worry about it.
Up Next:
Are Goats Good Pets?Goat Lifespan: How Long Do Goats Live?Pygmy Goats as Pets: The Complete Guide
