About LaMancha Dairy Goats

LaManchas are a breed of dairy goat and the only dairy goat that originated in the United States from a lady by the name of Eula Frey. While it is uncertain exactly what breeds were used in developing this breed it is thought that the Spanish goat played a huge role.

LaMancha Breed Description: LaManchas are probably one of the most distinctive breeds in the country. They are most well known for the lack of ear cartlige compared to other breeds of goats. The height requirements for does is 28 inches at the withers for does and 30 inches tall at the withers for bucks. The withers is the tallest part of the body itself and is located between the shoulder blades behind the neck.

Temperment: LaManchas are most widely know for having a sweet disposition and being a more laid back breed. They maintain production well and usually do better than most other breeds in stressful environments.

There are two types of ears that are accepted in the LaMancha breed.

Gopher: Gopher is the smallest of the two accepted ears types. The maximum ear length for an animal to be classified gopher eared is 1 inch while it is preferred ears be near no existent. Reigstered bucks in the LaMancha breed must have gopher ears.

Elf: Elf ears are the longer of the two accepted ear types of the LaMancha. Only females are allowed to have this type of ear and be registered. Elf Ears are only allowed to be up to 2 inches in length and to be registered they have to point up or down at the tips.

LaManchas are great milk production animals with the national average milk production being nearly a gallon per day.

LaManchas like any other breed of goat does require maintenance including worming and hoof trimming. Before we worm any of our LaManchas we usually have them fecaled by a veterinarian. This usually cost about $10 to $15 and gives us an insight on what type of wormer we need to use to keep from building resistance. It also keeps us from having to worm as often as we then only worm when neccessary.

Overall I would suggest a LaMancha for a family looking for a down to earth breed that is able to provide tasty milk while being a family pet and a member of the family.