Texas has a rich history of goat dairying, with two standout breeds leading the way: Nubian Dairy Goats and Nigerian Dwarf Goats. These goats provide high-quality milk that is cherished for its flavor, nutrition, and versatility in both food and handcrafted products.
Though small in stature, Nigerian Dwarf Goats produce milk with some of the highest butterfat levels of any dairy goat breed. Their milk is renowned for being exceptionally creamy and sweet.
Butterfat Content: 6–10%
Milk Flavor: Naturally sweet, luxuriously creamy
Best Uses: Desserts, creamers, specialty cheeses, caramel, and skincare products
Their manageable size and friendly temperament also make them popular among homesteaders and hobby farmers.
Goat milk is naturally easier to digest than cow milk and is rich in essential vitamins and minerals. It’s a versatile dairy option that works well for:
Drinking fresh
Cooking and baking
Cheese and yogurt making
Crafting soaps and lotions
Its unique composition makes it a healthy and flavorful choice for many households.
Texas’ diverse climate and abundant grazing land provide excellent conditions for raising dairy goats. From small homesteads to larger farms, Nubians and Nigerian Dwarfs thrive in this environment, contributing to the state’s growing interest in sustainable, local dairy production.
Nubian Dairy Goats: Often called the “Jersey cow of goats” because their rich milk resembles that of Jersey cows in butterfat content.
Nigerian Dwarf Goats: The only miniature dairy breed recognized by the American Dairy Goat Association (ADGA).
Texas Dairy History: Goats have been raised in Texas since the early 1900s, with the state becoming a hub for both fiber and dairy goat farming due to its diverse climates and pastures.