Caprine Classics Dairy Goats

Saanens — A Brief Introduction to the Breed

Saanens are a large breed of dairy goat characterized for their pure white or light cream coloring.  Their skin is light in color, and while black spots on the skin are acceptable, black spots more than 2 inches in diameter on the hair are discriminated against.  Saanens have erect ears and either a straight or dished (slightly concave) face is acceptable.  Their hair is short/medium in length, although some animals often have longer hair on the thighs and topline.  Saanens are typically a “rugged-boned” breed, but does must still retain their femininity and bucks must still be masculine, rather than both genders appearing coarse.

Saanens were developed in the Saanen Valley of Switzerland.  They were first recorded throughout Europe, and began being imported into the United States in 1904. 

Saanens are not only the largest breed of dairy goat, but they also are one of the top-producing breeds.  Therefore, they are prized by dairies for their production.  Saanen milk is slightly lower in butterfat content per pound of milk than other breeds such as the Nubian.

Occasionally, Saanens can be born with color.  A colored kid is called a “Sable” and must be registered as a Sable, not a Saanen.  Coloring can appear in a kid due to a recessive colored gene that many Saanens carry.

The ADGA Saanen herd book is closed, meaning that American Saanens can never be bred up to be purebred Saanens.  Years ago, purebred Saanens were quite common in the US and American Saanens were discriminated against.  However, in today’s Saanen breeding community, purebred herds are relatively rare and American Saanens are viewed as equal in quality to their purebred counterparts. 

Despite their very large size (with mature does usually weighing over 135 pounds and bucks over 170, with many animals near 250 pounds), Saanens are very quiet and docile.  They are generally easy-going and willing to please.  Their laid-back personalities and large sizes make them excellent for goat-packing or cart-pulling.  Many young showmen choose Saanens for showmanship because of their quietness in the ring.   They are excellent all-around goats for most operations!