The Saanen dairy goat originated in Switzerland. It is medium to large in size with rugged bone and plenty of vigor. Does should be feminine, however, and not coarse. Saanens are white or light cream in color, with white preferred. Spots on the skin are not discriminated against. Small spots of color on the hair are allowable, but not desirable.

The hair should be short and fine, although a fringe over the spine and thighs is often present. Ears should be erect and alertly carried, preferably pointing forward. The face should be straight or dished. A tendency toward a Roman nose is discriminated against.

Saanen – the best dairy breed!

The Saanen breed is the most outstanding dairy breed of goats in the world. This breed shows the best results of milk production. Saanen goat hold the world record for daily and annual milk yield. Therefore, goats of the Saanen breed are widely use to obtain milk on an industrial scale. Saanen goats for sale

These goats are medium and large build. Some goats are born hornless. But on large farm all animals are dehorn in early age to prevent traumas. All the Saanen goats are white.

Characteristics of Saanen goats:

•  a large animal with a well-developed skeleton;
•  an adult goat should weigh at least 60 kg and have a height at the withers of at least 75 cm;
•  color – white or slightly cream;
•  annual milk yield – from 1100 kg;
•  average daily milk yield – 3.7 kg;
•  fat content in milk – 3.8-4.5%.

Keeping Saanen goats in the Netherlands:

•  year-round stall keeping on a deep straw bed;
•  early colostrum, weaning and automation of the feeding process;
•  early vaccination of young goats;
•  strict pedigree stock count and selection of couples taking into account fecundity and productivity;
•  milking by parallel or carousel systems;
•  the use of artificial insemination;
•  carrying out an early mating of goats (at the age of 7 months).