Known as a dairy breed for centuries, the Saanen Goat is one of the top milk-producing goats! These lovely, pristine-looking creatures come from Switzerland but are popular worldwide for good reason!

Saanen Goats are very hardy and require little space. They adapt well to most management systems, which involve lots of stabling and a little pasturization. Saanen Goats are very intelligent and inquisitive, and are known to make mischief seemingly by accident! They will rip up your garden, but are so affectionate and adorable that you will have no choice but to forgive them!

At maturity, Saanen Goats usually weigh 145 pounds! Males usually stand 100 centimeters at the withers and females are about 80 centimeters. They are stocky, meaty goats, and have a rugged bone structure. Their faces are intelligent, and the nose is either straight or slightly dished. Usually, the erect ears are carried pointing forward, giving an attentive look to the goats! They are a horned breed. Saanen Goats are available in white and cream colors, though white are more popular! They have short hair and a fringe over the back and upper legs. The skin may have small color spots on it, though usually Saanen Goats with solid tan pigmented skin are preferred. Saanen Goats are good milkers, and generally produce milk with three to four percent fat content!

The Saanen Goat is native to Switzerland's Saanen Valley, though it is popular throughout Europe! In 1959, the herd book was established. In some areas of Europe, they are called Sana Goats. Lately, dairy goats have been extensively crossbred, especially since the 1970's, and are tending to become homogenized. Saanen Goats are very good milkers, and it is important that the breed be preserved. Several breeding and artificial insemination programs are in place. Remember, that in much of the United States it is illegal to give away, sell, or even transport any goat milk that is not of Grade A dairy quality!

Saanen Goats are very susceptible to sun-related problems like sunburn! Shade and shelter are a must. Generally, Saanen Goats will do best in cooler climates. In show, faults will be marked for Saanen Goats with roman noses! Thriving on mixed feed, Saanen Goats should be housed for six months of the year. Usually, eight to ten pounds of hay a day is required! Usually, you will need about 12 to 20 square feet of space per goat. They are social animals, and should not be kept alone. Your Saanen Goat should be milked every 12 hours. Remember to consult your veterinarian for care details for your Saanen Goat. Also, local breeders will generally be happy to give you advice!

Saanen Goats have high milk production and high fat content in that milk! They reach sexual maturity at an average age and their kidding interval is also average. They have good daily gain, average litter sizes, and a long breeding season.