Goats breed profile
Saanen
- Dairy
- Switzerland
- large
- Temperament: calm
Saanen is the highest-volume dairy goat breed worldwide — the Holstein of dairy goats. Heat sensitivity restricts U.S. fit to cooler regions; not a Southeast pick without significant cooling infrastructure.
Handler safety note
Calm and trainable. Bucks require respect.
Production & size
Mature size and output.
Female weight
135–200 lbs
Male weight
170–250 lbs
Milk/year
2,500 lbs
Butterfat
3.3%
Reproductive traits
Gestation
150 days
Kids/doe
1.8
Seasonality
seasonal
Maternal
good
Health & climate
Parasite resistance
fair
Heat tolerance
poor
Cold hardiness
good
Humidity tolerance
fair
Common health concerns
- Heat stress is the primary management challenge in the South
- White coat sunburn susceptibility
Management requirements
Experience
some experience
Housing
moderate
Fencing
woven wire
Feed system
pasture, hay, grain supplement
Dehorning
Typical
Primary purposes