Nubian Vs Nigerian Goats

When it comes to raising goats, there are many different breeds to choose from, each with its own unique characteristics and benefits. Two popular breeds that are often compared are the Nubian and Nigerian goats. Both breeds have their own strengths and weaknesses, so it's important to understand the differences between the two before making a decision on which breed is right for you.

Nubian goats are known for their large size and distinctive long, drooping ears. They are a dairy breed, producing high-quality milk with a high butterfat content. Nubian goats are also known for their friendly and outgoing personalities, making them a favorite among goat owners. On the other hand, Nigerian goats are a smaller breed, but they are known for their high milk production relative to their size. Nigerian goats are also popular for their colorful coats and playful personalities.

To help you decide which breed is right for you, let's take a closer look at some of the key differences between Nubian and Nigerian goats.

1. Size:

Nubian goats are larger and heavier than Nigerian goats, with adult Nubians weighing between 135-175 pounds, while Nigerian goats typically weigh between 60-80 pounds. The size difference can be a factor in terms of the amount of space and feed required to raise each breed.

2. Milk Production:

Nubian goats are known for their high milk production, with some individuals producing up to 2 gallons of milk per day. Nigerian goats also produce a good amount of milk for their size, averaging around 1-2 quarts per day. If you are looking for a dairy goat breed, both Nubian and Nigerian goats are good choices, but Nubians may be more suitable if you have the space and resources to support their higher milk production.

3. Temperament:

Nubian goats are known for their friendly and sociable personalities, while Nigerian goats are often described as playful and curious. Both breeds can make great pets, but Nubians may be better suited for those looking for a more affectionate and interactive goat.

4. Coat Color:

Nigerian goats come in a wide variety of colors and patterns, making them a popular choice for those looking for a visually striking goat. Nubian goats also come in a range of colors, but they are more commonly found in solid colors such as black, brown, or white.

5. Adaptability:

Nubian goats are known for their adaptability to a wide range of climates and environments, making them a good choice for those living in diverse regions. Nigerian goats are more sensitive to cold temperatures and may require additional shelter and care during the winter months.

6. Price:

Nubian goats are typically more expensive to purchase than Nigerian goats, due to their larger size and higher milk production. Nigerian goats are a more affordable option for those looking to start a goat herd on a budget.

7. Breeding:

Both Nubian and Nigerian goats are popular choices for breeding purposes, but Nubians are often used for crossing with other dairy breeds to improve milk production. Nigerian goats are also used for breeding, particularly for those looking to maintain the small size and colorful coats of the breed.

Now, let's hear what the professionals have to say about Nubian and Nigerian goats:

“Both Nubian and Nigerian goats are excellent choices for dairy production, but Nubians are my personal favorite due to their high milk production and friendly personalities. They are a joy to work with and provide a valuable source of milk for my family.” – Dairy Goat Farmer

“I have raised Nigerian goats for years and love their playful nature and colorful coats. While they may not produce as much milk as Nubians, they are still a great option for those looking for a smaller breed with good milk production.” – Small Farm Owner

“I have worked with both Nubian and Nigerian goats in my veterinary practice, and I have found that both breeds are generally healthy and easy to care for. However, Nubians may require a bit more attention due to their larger size and higher milk production.” – Veterinarian

“I have shown both Nubian and Nigerian goats at county fairs and have found that both breeds are competitive in the show ring. Nubians are known for their elegance and grace, while Nigerian goats often stand out for their unique coat colors and patterns.” – Goat Show Enthusiast

Now, let's address some common concerns and questions related to Nubian and Nigerian goats:

1. Are Nubian goats good for beginners?

Both Nubian and Nigerian goats can be good choices for beginners, but Nubians may require a bit more experience due to their larger size and higher milk production.

2. How much space do Nubian goats need?

Nubian goats require more space than Nigerian goats due to their larger size. A minimum of 10-15 square feet per goat is recommended for Nubians.

3. Do Nigerian goats require special care during the winter?

Nigerian goats are more sensitive to cold temperatures and may require additional shelter and care during the winter months, such as insulated housing and extra bedding.

4. Are Nubian goats good with children?

Nubian goats are known for their friendly and sociable personalities, making them a great choice for families with children. Nigerian goats are also good with children, but may be better suited for older kids due to their smaller size.

5. How much do Nubian goats cost?

Nubian goats are typically more expensive to purchase than Nigerian goats, with prices ranging from $200-$500 per goat depending on factors such as age, pedigree, and milk production.

6. How much milk do Nigerian goats produce?

Nigerian goats produce an average of 1-2 quarts of milk per day, making them a good choice for those looking for a smaller breed with good milk production.

7. Can Nubian and Nigerian goats be kept together?

Nubian and Nigerian goats can be kept together, but it's important to monitor their interactions to ensure that they get along and are not competing for resources such as food and water.

8. Do Nubian goats have any health issues?

Nubian goats are generally healthy animals, but they may be prone to certain health issues such as mastitis and hoof rot. Regular veterinary check-ups and proper care can help prevent these issues.

9. Are Nigerian goats good for meat production?

While Nigerian goats are not typically raised for meat production due to their smaller size, their meat is considered to be of good quality and flavor. Nigerian goats are often used for crossbreeding to improve meat quality in other goat breeds.

10. How long do Nubian goats live?

Nubian goats have an average lifespan of 12-14 years, but with proper care and attention, they can live even longer.

11. Can Nigerian goats be trained to walk on a leash?

Nigerian goats are known for their playful and curious nature, making them relatively easy to train to walk on a leash. With patience and positive reinforcement, Nigerian goats can become skilled at walking on a leash.

12. Do Nubian goats require special feed?

Nubian goats have a higher energy requirement due to their larger size and higher milk production, so they may require a diet that is higher in protein and nutrients compared to other goat breeds.

13. What are some common colors of Nigerian goats?

Nigerian goats come in a wide variety of colors and patterns, including black, brown, white, and various combinations of these colors. Some Nigerian goats also have striking markings such as spots and patches.

14. Are Nubian goats good for grazing?

Nubian goats are good grazers and can thrive on a diet of pasture grass, hay, and supplemental feed. Providing access to fresh pasture and forage can help keep Nubian goats healthy and happy.

15. Can Nigerian goats be raised in urban areas?

Nigerian goats are a smaller breed that can adapt well to urban environments, making them a good choice for those looking to raise goats in limited space. However, it's important to check local zoning laws and regulations before keeping Nigerian goats in urban areas.

In summary, both Nubian and Nigerian goats are great choices for those looking to raise goats for milk production, breeding, or as pets. Nubian goats are known for their large size, high milk production, and friendly personalities, while Nigerian goats are smaller in size, with good milk production relative to their size, colorful coats, and playful personalities. Ultimately, the best breed for you will depend on your specific needs, resources, and preferences. Consider factors such as space, budget, climate, and personal interaction preferences when choosing between Nubian and Nigerian goats for your goat herd.