Other Names : Alpine polychrome, American Alpine, French Alpine
The Alpine is a medium to the large-sized breed of domestic goat known for its very good milking ability. They have no set colours or markings (although certain markings are discriminated against). They have horns, a straight profile and erect ears.
The breed originated in the French Alps. Mature does weigh around 61 kg (135 lbs) and are about 76 cm (30 in) tall at the shoulder. Alpine goats can range from white or grey to brown and black. Alpine goats are heavy milkers. The milk can be made into butter, cheese, soap, ice cream or any other dairy product normally made from cow’s milk. They are often used for commercial dairy production, as well as homestead milk goats.
Several sub-types of Alpine goats have emerged, namely:
- Purebred (French) Alpines: the original type from the French Alps
- American Alpines: Alpines with other genetic influences after their introduction to the United States. American Alpines have much of the visual type and temperament as French Alpines but may have less standard markings or confirmation due to crossbreeding.
Alpine goats are a medium to large-sized breed. Males are over 81 cm (32 in) tall at the withers and females are over 76 cm (30 in) tall at the withers. Their hair is short to medium in length, and they come in all colours and combinations of colours. They have erect ears and a straight profile and are described as being “alertly graceful” with the ability to adapt to any climate thanks to their hardy nature. They are the only breed with erect ears that comes in all colours and combinations of colours.
The sexual maturation rate among Alpine goats is at four to five months after birth for buck kids, and five to six months after birth for doe kids. However, doe kids should not be bred until they are at least 75-80 lbs. A doe’s gestation lasts for 145 – 155 days, with 150 being the average. Twins are the most common, but they can have singles, all the way up to quintuplets.
Alpine goats are friendly and highly curious, however, they can be independent and strong-willed.
The American Dairy Goat Association faults all-white and Toggenburg patterned individuals.