Nigerian Dwarf Dairy Goats at TnF Farms

happy young goats wanting attention

TnF Farms is proud to be home to a thriving community of Nigerian Dwarf goats. These small but spirited creatures have become a significant part of our farm. Our goats have taught us valuable lessons about animal husbandry, sustainability, and the joys of rural living.

Nigerian Dwarf goats are a miniature breed known for their gentle disposition and high milk production relative to their size. Their compact stature makes them well-suited for small-scale farming. Which aligns perfectly with our homesteading ethos. We’ve come to appreciate these goats not only for their milk but also for the unique personalities the does especially, bring to our farm.

Our experience with Nigerian Dwarf goats has been a blend of what we knew from research and what we’ve learned through hands-on care. We were aware of their dietary needs with the help of a neighboring goat farm. They helped us develop our own custom blend of feed that provides a balanced diet rich in fiber and minerals. We’ve maintained a meticulous feeding regimen to ensure their health and quality milk production. Regular veterinary check-ups and preventive care have also been essential in keeping our goats thriving at a healthy weight.

Nigerian Dwarfs make the best milk

One of the most rewarding aspects of raising Nigerian Dwarf goats has been their role in sustainable farming. Their milk is rich in butterfat, making it ideal for cheese, yogurt, ice cream and soap production. This self-sufficiency on our farm not only reduces our reliance on commercial products but also reinforces our commitment to eco-friendly and ethical practices.

Beyond their practical contributions, these goats have provided us with moments of sheer delight. Their playful antics, endearing personalities, and the calming presence they bring to our farm are immeasurable. We’ve learned that each goat has its quirks and preferences, and building a strong bond with them has been a fulfilling journey.

As we continue to raise Nigerian Dwarf goats at TnF Farms, our commitment to their well-being and the sustainability of our homestead remains unwavering. We look forward to sharing more about our experiences. The lessons we learn, and the joy these remarkable animals bring to our lives. Join us on this heartwarming journey of discovery and connection with nature through our Nigerian Dwarf goats at TnF Farms.

Farm Animals Make Life Better

02/01/2024/in American Guinea Hogs, Farm Animals, Florida Living, Nigerian Dwarf Goats, Nubian Goats, Poultry/by Kaitlyn

I am a frequent visitor to TnF Farms, usually about once a month for a few days. I have been visiting the last few years since Tim and Faith moved to Tallahassee to start their farm. I am no stranger to farm life, as I have had horses growing up, and I much prefer it over city living. During my visits, I help Faith with farm chores, lend a helping hand on projects, become a goat midwife, and get my much-needed farm fix. I have always had a deep connection with animals in general, but there’s just something inherently special about farm animals.

Goat Friendly Florida Trees

01/22/2024/in Farm Animals, Florida Living, Homesteading, Nigerian Dwarf Goats, Nubian Goats/by Faith

Florida’s diverse and warm climate provides an excellent opportunity for goat farmers to integrate fruit trees into their farms. When selecting fruit trees for a goat farm in Florida, it’s essential to consider not only the climate but also the nutritional benefits these trees can offer to the goats. Here’s a more in-depth look at some suitable fruit trees:

Should You Grow Ryegrass?

01/20/2024/in American Guinea Hogs, Farm Animals, Homesteading, Nigerian Dwarf Goats, Nubian Goats, Poultry/by Tim

Beyond its role as a forage crop, rye grass plays a crucial role in environmental conservation. Its ability to prevent soil erosion, particularly on slopes or vulnerable terrain, has made it a preferred choice for cover cropping. As a cover crop, ryegrass forms a protective layer over the soil, reducing the risk of erosion and promoting soil health. Additionally, its quick growth makes it an effective ground cover in lawns and pastures, providing an aesthetically pleasing green carpet. Whether utilized for livestock feed, erosion control, or ornamental landscaping, ryegrass stands out as a resilient and adaptable grass species with multifaceted benefits.

2024 Dairy Goat Guide

01/01/2024/in Farm Animals, Florida Living, Homesteading, Nigerian Dwarf Goats, Nubian Goats/by Faith

Nubian goats are believed to be one of the oldest domesticated dairy breeds, and their history can be traced back thousands of years. Nubian goats trace their roots to North Africa, with historical significance in Nubia. The Nubia region is now part of Sudan and Egypt. Nubians are known for their distinctive characteristics and valuable contributions to the dairy and meat industries. The breed we know today as Nubian goats was from British does (female goats) being crossed with bucks (male goats) from Africa.

This is an extensive post, I will be covering:

Dairy Goats: Two Adorable Breeds

12/11/2023/in Farm Animals, Farmer's Market, Homesteading, Nigerian Dwarf Goats, Nubian Goats/by Faith

With the choices between Nigerian Dwarf Goats and Mini Nubian Goats, I couldn’t decide! So we have both kinds of goats at TnF Farms. If you’re trying to decide which of these gems is best for you, it boils down to personal preferences. Join us as we break down the differences between both breeds.

Growing lemons in Florida

12/09/2023/in American Guinea Hogs, Farm Animals, Florida Living, Homesteading, Nigerian Dwarf Goats/by Faith

When we bought the property that is now TnF Farms, we saw that there were some mature fruit trees on the property. We thought they may have been pears. No, they were lemons. The first late fall harvest, we were pretty excited. The lemons were big and bright yellow. We cut into one and it was full of seeds. We tried a couple of others and they were very seedy. Then we tasted one and discovered it wasn’t pleasantly tart, but punishingly bitter. No amount of sugar added to this fruit would make lemonade, lemon curd, or lemon bars.

Building our Goat Tote

12/07/2023/in American Guinea Hogs, Farm Animals, Florida Living, Homesteading, Let's Do Something, Nigerian Dwarf Goats, Nubian Goats/by Tim

It’s soon 2024. Perhaps you’ve been living under a rock. Let me prep you before you emerge from ignorant bliss. Everything costs more. Too much more. For some items the pricing is ridiculous. I have been on the lookout for a livestock trailer. For months, I have cruised Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace and have concluded there are 2 kinds of used livestock trailers available in the open market right now:

Big in Dairy Benefits

08/22/2023/in Farm Animals, Homesteading, Nigerian Dwarf Goats/by Faith

When it comes to dairy goats, the Nigerian Dwarf goat stands out as a small but mighty choice. Despite their diminutive stature, these goats offer a wealth of benefits for dairy enthusiasts and homesteaders alike. In this article, we’ll explore why Nigerian Dwarf goats are considered great dairy goats and how they can be an excellent addition to your farm or homestead.

A Guide to Florida Goat Farming

08/15/2023/in Farm Animals, Florida Living, Homesteading, Nigerian Dwarf Goats/by Faith

Florida, known for its sunny weather and lush landscapes, might not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of dairy farming. However, raising dairy goats in Florida is not only possible but can also be a rewarding and sustainable endeavor. In this blog post, we’ll explore the ins and outs of raising dairy goats in the Sunshine State, from choosing the right breed to overcoming the unique challenges that Florida’s climate presents.

Florida’s Raw Milk Laws

08/14/2023/in Farm Animals, Florida Living, Homesteading, Nigerian Dwarf Goats, Nubian Goats/by Tim

Florida, known for its stunning beaches and year-round sunshine, is also home to a complex set of regulations governing the sale and consumption of raw milk. Raw milk enthusiasts and producers in the state must navigate a legal landscape that balances the desire for access to unprocessed dairy with concerns about public health and safety. In this blog post, we’ll delve into Florida’s raw milk laws, exploring the regulations, benefits, and challenges associated with raw milk in the Sunshine State.