Selected breeds of goats

name use distribution characteristics comments

Angora (Angora goat) wool originally Turkey, now also South Africa, U.S. small body; thick, flat fleece thrives in temperate regions

Boer meat originally South Africa horned; lop ears extended breeding season

Cashmere wool, milk, and meat originally China, now also Asia, Middle East small body; large ears, small horns wool obtained from its undercoat

La Mancha milk originally U.S. distinct ear types: "gopher ears" (up to one inch in length but preferably nonexistent) or "elf ears" (maximum length 2 inches) hardy

Nubian milk originally North Africa, now also India, Middle East, U.K., U.S. long legs, long ears, large noses several varieties

Oberhasli milk originally Switzerland medium-sized; chamois in colour with two black stripes on face alert in appearance

Saanen milk originally Saanen Valley, Switzerland white or cream-coloured; short hair consistent milk producer

Toggenburg milk originally Switzerland, now also U.K., U.S. light to dark brown important dairy goat