Nigerian Dwarf vs. Pygmy Goats

Nigerian Dwarf Goats are often mistakenly called Pygmy Goats because both orginated in Africa and are of similar size. But the similarities end there. Nigerians are a dual-purpose goat, used for both its dairy/milking abilities and as a meat goat ( at least maybe in Africa they are ). In the US, the Nigerian is rapidly gaining in popularity as a home dairy goat, a 4-H project, and as pets. They are very friendly, very easy to handle, and are just adorable! Their conformation (body type) is just like a regular dairy goat, but smaller.

The Pygmy Goat, on the other hand, is not as refined or attractive as the Nigerian, not does it have as good milking abilities. They have been referred to as looking like "a bowling ball with legs". Also known as Cameroon Dwarf Goats, the Pygmy is very muscular and is used as a pet and meat goat. They also tend to be much hairier than the Nigerians.

Both types of miniature goat make great pets and are playful, funny and friendly. The Nigerian just has the added benefit of offering milk and being better looking (at least in my opinion). But, beauty is in the eye of the beholder...