The Appenzell goat

The Appenzell goat is a domestic, rare and endangered indigenous breed. It originates from the Appenzell region of Switzerland. The earliest information about the Appenzell goat was found more than 100 years ago.

In 1902, the first association, the Ziegenzuchtgenossenschaft Appenzell (goat rearing association of Appenzell), was established to protect and maintain the breed.

At the end of 2013, 1900 to 2000 animals were registered, and some breeders are starting to show interest for this robust breed.

The Appenzell goat is a pure white goat with mid-length hair. It has a powerful, harmoniously built body. The limbs are powerful and well positioned. The body is somewhat broader than that of the Saanen and therefore somewhat smaller.

This goat is bred hornless. The height of the withers is said to be 75 to 85 cm with bucks, and 70 to 80 cm with the nannies. The male animals are on average 65kg in weight, and the female approximately 45kg.

In milk production, the Appenzell goat is on par with the other breeds: during lactation between 700 and 800kg, fat 2.9%, protein 2.7%, lactation duration 270 days. As is generally known, milk production is heavily influenced by care. The number of herd book animals is around 800; the stock is slowly increasing again.

This breed was very heavily affected by the CAE-Virus, so extensive restoration had to be done. Today the breed is essentially CAE-free.