Originating in West Africa, the Nigerian Dwarf is a true miniature dairy breed.  The AGS
maximum height allowance is 23.6 inches for bucks and 22.4 inches for does.  
Measurement of height is taken at the withers.  The profile of the face is straight, with upright
ears.  The coat is straight, with hair that is short to medium length.  Any color combination is
acceptable.

Their housing and feed requirements are minimal compared to other breed types, and yet
their milk production is proportionately high.  Each doe gives us more than a quart of milk a
day, plenty for a family of four.

Dairy goat milk is rich in butterfat in comparison to cow's milk, yet naturally homogenized so
that the butterfat stays evenly distributed without mechanical or chemical manipulation.  The
abundant supply of milk can easily made into a variety of cheeses, yogurt, and soap.

The entire herd is tested periodically for CAE and Johnnes Disease.  They are inspected
routinely for CL.  We have never had any of these diseases.  
We believe that goats are like humans in that- what may be good for one is not always good
for another.  We pay close attention to each goat's nutritional needs, and assure that each
one gets the proper amount of protein, fiber, and crude fat.  We do not use any grains that
contain animal by-products and feed a quality grass hay, copper/selenium mineral, kelp, and
baking soda.  Plenty of fresh water is always available.   

Being proactive in our health management is important to us, therefore we work closely with
our veterinarian to prevent illness.  The goats are provided with proper immunizations, and
receive worming medications on a regular schedule.

They are provided ample outside space, as well as a clean well-ventilated shelter.  Our
animals are brought inside to their barn at night to prevent attack from predators.
Birch Grove Farm
Hubbardston, MA
Pregnant does are given the utmost care with proper nutrition being our main
priority.  Our does receive the proper calcium/phosphorus ratio they need in the
appropriate phase of their pregnancy.  Vitamins A&D are also given to help make
calcium more available in the system.

The does are given CD&T immunizations four weeks before kidding, allowing the
mother to pass the immunity against Enterotoxaemia to her offspring.

When kidding time nears, each dam is given ample private space to deliver her kids
and to spend a few days together with them before introducing the kids to the main
herd.  We allow all our does to raise their kids because we test CAE Negative.

Our two-legged kids get the job of socializing the four-legged kids.  This entails
holding, cuddling, and playing with the babies right from birth.  This makes the
four-legged kids friendly and easier to handle.  Our two-legged kids never object to
this chore because baby goats are so cute and fun to be with.

When the kids are old enough, they are introduced to the herd.  A creep area is
available for the kids, where they can feed or rest away from the larger animals.  We
begin weaning at about 8 weeks old.