Pygmy Goats were first imported into the United States in 1959. This cobby breed originated in Africa as a meat goat, but now are raised mostly as pets. Goats are believed to be some of the earliest domesticated animals. The even temperament of the pygmy, and its love for being with people (and other goats) has won the beloved breed into the hearts of many Americans.

For More Information Visit the NPGA's Page

(National Pygmy Goat Association)

Description 

    Pygmy Goats are cobby and compact animals. They are smaller than other breed. Mature animals measure from 16 to 23 inches at the withers (shoulders). As miniature meat goats, pygmies have full-barreled and well-muscled bodies. The body circumference in relation to the height and weight is proportionately greater than that of other breeds of goats. Their head and legs are also short, in relation to body size and length. 

    Pygmies should have a full coat of straight, medium-long hair. It may vary in density for different seasons and climates. Beard on females may be non-existent, sparse, or trimmed. On adult males, abundant hair growth is desired. 

    Some breed-specific markings are required. First of all, the muzzle, forehead, eyes, and ears should be accented in tones lighter than the darker portion of the body, with the exception of solid black goats. Also, front and rear hoofs and cannons (socks) should be dark than the main coat, not for solid black goats, either. On all caramel pygmies, lighter-colored vertical stripes are required on the front side of darker socks. 

Recognized Color Patterns 

Caramel Patterns

Forehead, muzzle, ears, and eyes accepted in lighter tones than the rest
of the body. 

Light Caramel – Caramel or white hairs mixed with white hairs in the undercoat, topcoat a shade between pure white and cream. 
Medium Caramel – Caramel and white hairs mixed in the undercoat making the topcoat an apricot color. 
Dark Caramel – White hairs blended with darker caramel hairs in the undercoat producing a medium tan shade in the topcoat. 
Brown Caramel – Mostly brown with occasional white hairs in the undercoat, topcoat a shade of dark brown. 

Agouti Patterns 
The stockings on agoutis are darker than the main body color. Muzzle, forehead, eyes, and ears can be accented with lighter colors. 

Light Gray Agouti – In the undercoat, black and white hairs mixed, with slightly more white hairs, topcoat is a shade of sliver. 
Medium Gray Agouti – Equal amounts of white and black hairs giving the topcoat the grizzled pattern of salt and pepper. 
Dark Gray Agouti – A darker appearance with fewer white hairs, but still a pronounced agouti pattern. 
Black Agouti – Mainly black hairs with occasional white ones. 
Light Brown Agouti – Light and/or silver gray hairs mixed with brown-tipped white hairs giving the topcoat an appearance of burnt silver. 
Medium Brown Agouti – Equal amounts of brown and white hairs in the undercoat with a topcoat of a browner salt and pepper affect. 
Dark Brown Agouti – Brown mixed with fewer white hairs, but still an agouti appearance. 
Brown Agouti – Brown with occasional white hairs. 

Black Patterns 
All black goats have solid stockings. 

Black – Solid black except for light accented muzzle, forehead, ears, and/or eyes. 
Solid Black – All black with no light accents.