Australian miniature goat

The Australian miniature goat is a breed of goat created in 1995.

This concept was developed by Sue Ludwig, and was based on carefully-selected genetically smaller feral goats in the effort to produce animals similar in height and type to the Nigerian dwarf goats commonly kept overseas. Small Cashmere and Angora goats are often used in miniature goat production too.

A club was formed in February 2000 to unite breeders interested in creating and developing the breed and over the years standards have been set for four types within the Australian miniature goat breed:

  • The Mini-mancha, have elf or gopher ears that should not exceed 5cm (2") in length
  • the Pixie, with medium sized rigid, upright ears (similar to the Nigerian dwarf goat)
  • the Munchkin (formerly Minikin), with short flat folded ears
  • the Nuwby, with long pendulous ears.
  • the Sheltie, with a long non-shedding coat.

All types are recognised in any colour and coat types range from short and sleek, to cashmere, or sheltie coat (long, non-shedding, evenly distributed).

The breed measures up to 57cm (22.5") for adult females and 60cm (23.5") for adult males . A Grading system is in place for the development of the breed and animals up to 63.5cm (25") are accepted for registration in the lower grades. The height is taken with a right-angle measuring device (with a spirit level), when the animal is three years of age (or older) and measurement is taken at the highest point of the withers with the animal standing in a relaxed position with its head up.

These intelligent little animals have wonderfully gentle natures and their smaller size makes them easier for all members of the family to train and handle. Australian miniature goats are predominantly kept and promoted as pets and some owners use the long hair types for spinning while some owners milk their goats (who are surprisingly good little milkers). Milk is often used to make cheese and some people even use it to make goat milk soaps. Owners also collect manure (which is high in nitrogen) and use it for organic fertilizer while others use their goats to help control weeds.