Toggenburg Goats are a
Swiss dairy goat from Toggenburg Valley of Switzerland. They are considered to be
the oldest known dairy goat breed. They are medium size, sturdy, vigorous, and
alert in appearance.
Toggenburg goat hair is
short or medium in length, soft, fine, and lying flat. Its color is solid
varying from light fawn to dark chocolate with no preference for any shade. They
are also found with white ears with dark spot in middle; two white stripes down
the face from above each eye to the muzzle; hind legs white from hocks to
hooves; forelegs white from knees downward with a dark lien (band) below knee
acceptable; a white triangle on either side of the tail; white spot may be
present at root of wattles or in that area if no wattles are present. Varying
degrees of cream markings instead of pure white are considered acceptable, but
not desirable. They have erect ears that are carried forward. TheirFacial lines
may be dished or straight, but never roman.
Toggenburgs perform best in
cooler conditions. They are noted for their excellent udder development and
high milk production, and have an average fat test of 3.7 percent.
Toggenburgs are generally a
friendly, quiet, and gentle breed, and are good as pets, although they are
classed as dairy goats. They are often extremely curious and inquisitive
animals. Toggenburgs are arguably the hardiest of all goat breeds; crosses with
meat goats (i.e. Kalahari red, Boer goats) can add better growth rates to their
offspring, offering a milking line to the offspring of meat goats.
About Toggenburg Goats
