Raising Nubian Goats

Raising Nubian Goats

Raising Nubian Goats

Nubian goats are one of the most popular dairy goat breeds in the United States and beyond—prized for their rich, high-butterfat milk, striking appearance, and affectionate personalities. Whether you're raising them for milk, breeding, or as farm companions, understanding their specific needs is key to success. 

1. Breed Overview

• Origin: Developed in England from Middle Eastern and Indian goat breeds; recognized by the American Dairy Goat Association (ADGA).

• Size: Large dairy breed—does ≥30" at withers (135+ lbs), bucks ≥32" (175+ lbs).

• Ears: Long, pendulous ears; distinct "Roman nose."

• Milk: High butterfat (4.5–6%), sweet flavor—ideal for cheese, yogurt, and soap.

• Temperament: Friendly, vocal, curious, and people-oriented.

• Lifespan: 10–15 years with proper care.

• Breeding Season: Typically August–January (seasonal breeders), though some cycle year-round.

2. Housing Requirements

Shelter:

• Provide 15–20 sq ft per goat indoors.

• Must be dry, well-ventilated, and draft-free—Nubians are less cold-hardy than meat breeds.

• Use raised platforms or deep bedding (straw or wood shavings) to keep them off wet ground.

• Ensure roof overhangs to keep rain out of open-sided shelters.

Outdoor Space:

• Minimum 200–250 sq ft per goat in a secure paddock.

• Include shade, windbreaks, and climbing structures (they love to jump and explore!).

3. Fencing

• Use 4–5 ft woven wire, cattle panels, or goat-specific fencing.

• Gate latches must be goat-proof—Nubians are clever and strong.

• Avoid large openings; kids can escape through gaps as small as 4 inches.

• Electric fencing can supplement but isn’t always reliable as a sole barrier.

4. Nutrition

Forage & Pasture:

• Nubians prefer browse (brush, weeds, tree leaves) over grass.

• Practice rotational grazing to reduce parasite load.

Hay:

• Offer free-choice high-quality hay.

• Alfalfa is excellent for lactating does; grass hay suits dry does and wethers.

Grain & Supplements:

• Lactating does: 1–2 lbs/day of goat feed (adjust based on milk output).

• Avoid grain for wethers—risk of urinary calculi.

• Provide goat-specific loose minerals (must contain copper—never use sheep minerals).

• Fresh, clean water is essential—milk production drops dramatically without it.

5. Health Care

Vaccinations:

• CD&T (Clostridium C & D + Tetanus):

  • Kids: First dose at 6–8 weeks, booster 3–4 weeks later.

  • Adults: Annual boosters; does vaccinated 4–6 weeks before kidding.

Parasite Management:

• Nubians are more parasite-sensitive than hardy breeds (e.g., Kikos).

• Use FAMACHA scoring, body condition checks, and fecal tests.

• Deworm only when necessary to avoid resistance.

Hoof Trimming:

• Every 4–8 weeks, depending on terrain and moisture.

• Keep hooves clean and dry to prevent foot rot.

Common Health Issues:

• Mastitis (check udder daily during lactation)

• Pneumonia (especially in damp, poorly ventilated shelters)

• Coccidiosis (in young, stressed kids)

• Urinary calculi (in wethers—ensure proper Ca:P ratio and water access)

6. Breeding & Kidding

Breeding Age:

• Does: Wait until 8–10 months old and ≥80 lbs.

• Bucks: Fertile by 6 months—separate from does early if not intended for breeding.

Gestation: ~150 days (5 months).

Kidding:

• Most Nubians kid unassisted, but monitor closely—large single kids or multiples can cause complications.

• Provide a clean, quiet, dry kidding stall with fresh bedding.

• Kids must nurse within 1–2 hours to receive vital colostrum.

• Have a kidding kit ready: towels, iodine (for umbilical cords), OB gloves, and vet contact.

Milking:

• Begin after kids are weaned (typically 8–12 weeks).

• Milk twice daily, 12 hours apart, for consistent production.

• Lactation lasts 9–10 months; peak milk yield at 6–8 weeks postpartum.

7. Social Needs

• Never keep just one goat—Nubians are highly social and can become stressed or depressed alone.

• Ideal starter herd: two does or a doe and a wether.

• Bucks should be housed separately—they become strong-smelling and aggressive during rut.

8. Predator Protection

• Lock goats in a secure, predator-proof shelter at night.

• Use livestock guardian dogs (e.g., Great Pyrenees), donkeys, or llamas.

• Secure fencing and motion-sensor lights add extra safety.

9. Why Raise Nubian Goats?

✅ High-quality, creamy milk with excellent flavor
✅ Affectionate and engaging personalities
✅ Good milk volume + high butterfat = ideal for dairy products
✅ Striking appearance with unique ears and color patterns
✅ Strong maternal instincts

10. Pro Tips for Success

• Start with ADGA-registered goats from reputable breeders—ask for health and milk records.

• Keep detailed logs: breeding dates, vaccinations, deworming, and milk production.

• Join the American Dairy Goat Association (ADGA) or a local goat club.

• Be prepared for their vocal nature—Nubians are famously loud and expressive!

With attentive care, proper nutrition, and a secure environment, Nubian goats can thrive and provide years of milk, companionship, and farm joy.

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