The Anglo-Nubian is a British breed of domestic goat. It originated in the nineteenth century from cross-breeding between native British goats and a mixed population of large lop-eared goats imported from India, the Middle East and North Africa. It is characterised by large, pendulous ears and a convex profile.
Anglo-Nubians are not heavy milk producers, although they have developed into a popular milking breed in Australia having a high average fat yield, usually over 4%. They tend to be less seasonal breeders and carry more flesh than the Alpine breeds and are recognised as dual purpose (meat and milk) animals.
The Anglo-Nubian is the best suited of the dairy goat breeds in Australia to hot conditions. They have been used in grading-up programs in many tropical countries to increase the milk and meat production of local breeds.
Anglo-Nubians are large, with does weighing at least 64 kg. The average height of the breed, measured at the withers, is 81 cm for does and 94 cm for bucks.
The ears are long, broad and pendulous. The face is convex and the forehead is particularly prominent. They have a fine tapering muzzle and flat nostrils. The backline may have a dip behind the withers and a gentle rise to the hips. The teats are often greater in length than in the Alpine breeds. Anglo-Nubians may or may not have horns at birth. The Anglo-Nubians which entered Australia did not have tassels, however they may be present in graded-up animals.
Anglo-Nubians can be any colour or combination of colours but should not show the full Swiss markings evident in the Toggenburg and British Alpine breeds.
Anglo-Nubians respond very quickly to affection and often have an unmistakable bleat.
The main identifying feature of this breed is the head, which has a pronounced “roman” nose and long drooping ears. The goat has a long deep body and an upright stance. The large number of colour variations, in the short silky coat, adds to the breeds’ attractions.
An average 24 hours yield of 3.89 Kg. at 4.84% butterfat and 3.51% protein was obtained by considering data from all Anglo Nubians entered in B.G.S. recognised milking trials in a recent year (467 performances). The milk is ideal for yoghurt and cheese making.
The breed is also well suited to meat production, both in its own right and when crossed with other breeds. It adapts well to hot climates and has resulted in demand for exports to increase both milk and meat production.