Purdue University Dairy Goats Information

COMMON BREEDS OF DAIRY GOATS IN THE US
SAANEN

Mac Mendell, Undergraduate Student, Dept. of Animal Sciences

Saanens are usually pure white or light cream, but white is preferred. Their ears should be a medium size and carried erect, preferably pointing forward. They have short fine hair and often have a fringe over the spine and thighs. They have a straight or dished face. They originated in Switzerland, but now represent the second most popular breed of dairy goat in the US. The Saanens are the largest of all breeds with a required height of 30 inches and weighing around 135 pounds. They usually have a large udder capacity and are popular with dairies due to the quality of milk they produce. [ADGA averages for 2010 lactations: 2545 lbs milk, 3.2% fat, and 2.8% protein]

   

National Saanen Breeders Association


Return to Breeds of Dairy Goats page