Top 5 Meat Goat Breeds
While not very popular in the United States goat meat is very popular around the world, in fact more goat meat is consumed than any other meat on the planet. Goat meat is consumed with good reason, it is nutritionally healthier than most other meats on the market. Enjoy top 5 meat goat breeds.
Boer Goats
Originally developed in South Africa and brought to the United States in 1994, these goats are easily one of the best meat production breeds. They have a fast growth rate and a high fertility rate making breeding easy. These goats are easily distinguishable by their head shape and their white bodies with rusty red heads. A good quality Boer goat fetches a high price on the market which really speaks to how desirable they are. Boer goats really are some of the highest quality meat production goats on the market.
Spanish Goats
Spanish goats are very popular in the goat meat industry. Though they originated in Spain they have become prevalent in all parts of the world. While they can be polled (no horns) it is most common to breed them to have horns due to the the fact that the horned Spanish Goats can carry a hermaphroditism gene. While not as popular as Boers there is still a high demand for these goats due to their fair fertility and growth speed.
Beetal Goats
Beetal goats are very popular breed throughout many Asian countries. These goats are good for meat and dairy production making them a highly versatile breed. While this breed is not perfect at its specialties it is still a highly valued goat. The Beetal Goat is a perfect choice for farmers who produce both dairy and meat.
Kalahari Red Goats
The Kalahari Red Goat is one of the best goats for meat production. While they happen to be one of the best meat goats in the world they are also extremely hardy. While few keep these goats as pets those who do say they are extremely friendly. Due to their hardiness and high meat yield Kalahari Reds are some of the finest meat goats on the market.
Saanen Goats
The Saanen goat originated in Switzerland and is an excellent milk and dairy producing goat. Clocking in at 145 pounds this is a fairly large goat. The only downside to this goat is the fact that it will need colder conditions to thrive. The Saanen is an excellent meat goat that would be extremely good for any cold weather meat goat operation.