Goat Gestation Period by Breed: Boer to Nigerian Dwarf

The all-goat average gestation is 150 days, but the exact number shifts by breed, litter size and doe condition. This breed-by-breed chart shows the average and a realistic range so you know when to start watching each doe.

Goat gestation chart by breed

Load any of these into the goat gestation calculator to get an exact due date for your breeding date.

Meat breeds (~150 days)

Boer, Kiko and Spanish goats are large-framed and often carry the pregnancy a few days longer than miniatures. Single kids in these breeds can be large, so watch meat does closely near the end.

Dairy breeds (~150 days)

Saanen and Alpine sit around 149-150 days, while Nubians run to the longer end near 151-152. Track each doe’s exact breeding date so you can prepare for milking soon after kidding. Nigerian Dwarf, a miniature dairy breed, kids earlier at about 145 days.

Fiber breeds (150-155 days)

Angora and Cashmere goats average 150-155 days and need clean, dry housing in late pregnancy to protect coat quality before kidding.

Why breed size matters

Smaller breeds carry multiples more often, and multiples tend to arrive sooner - which is part of why minis average five fewer days. If you do not know the breed, use the standard 150-day figure and start your kidding watch from about day 143.

Breed averages here follow commonly cited figures; for herd-specific advice consult your veterinarian or the Maryland Small Ruminant Page. Not sure how long your goats are pregnant overall? Start with our complete gestation guide.