Recommended Reading for Nigerian Dwarf Goat Owners

When we first got the Nigerian Dwarf goats, I asked if there were any books that would be good to have on hand for reference.  The two that our friends from Wild Wind Farm recommended are definitely worthwhile as they’re specific to the Nigerian Dwarf breed.  I’ve since attended classes on goat care etc., but having these on hand for reference has been invaluable for us.

The first recommended book is called Goat Health Care by Cheryl K. Smith.  It’s made up of reprints from Ruminations, the Nigerian Dwarf and Mini Dairy Goat Magazine.  I particularly like the information on medications for goats and the dosage amounts that are specific to Nigerian Dwarves (which can be difficult to find).  It also tells you about:

• how to understand your goat and use your knowledge to identify illness
• routine goat care tips and how-to’s, including feeding, hoof trimming, giving injections, and more
• breeding, kidding, and kid care
• common and not-so-common goat health issues
• veterinary medications and dosages used for goats
• home remedies
• natural and herbal care for goats
• other resources to help you keep your goats healthy

The second recommended book is called Personal Milkers: A Primer to Nigerian Dwarf Goats by Patricia Garland Stewart.   This book says that it’s aimed at the person who is “Starting from Scratch” and is interested in keeping Nigerian Dwarf Goats with the goal of obtaining milk.  As well as helping new owners interested in taking control of their milk supply get started, it’s meant to help beyond the first year, into that first set of sales, and being a goat mentor yourself, if you choose.

If you’re considering raising Nigerian Dwarf goats, both of these books are good resources and I’m so glad someone recommended them to us.