The American Pygmy is a breed of goat known for its size. Their small size is caused by Achondroplasia, a genetic disorder that primarily shows itself as dwarfism.

Here are some facts about pygmy goats: 

Appearance

• It has a coat of straight, medium-long hair which varies in density depending on the season and climate that it is found.
• It has short limbs and a small head in comparison to the length of its body.
• The National Pygmy Goat Association described the breed as hardy, agile, alert and animated, good-natured, and gregarious.

Breeding Uses

• The American Pygmy’s size and ability to be handled has made it a great candidate for medical research.
• Studies have found the American Pygmy to be a good producer of antibodies for immunological research.
• Some of the earliest arrivals to the U.S. found their way into private ownership and thus began a growing trend to raise the American Pygmy Goat as a companion animal.
• Livestock producers have also recognized the breed to be a useful meat product.
• In 2007, the Food And Agriculture Organization of The United Nations recognized the American Pygmy Goat as an “Endangered Species.”

Population 

• This breed is derived from the group of goat breeds known as the West African Dwarfs and was introduced to the United States around 1930.
• Between 1930 and 1960, a number of West African Dwarf goat species were imported from German Zoos to the U.S. both for exhibition in zoos and to be used as research animals.
• By 2019, that status had been upgraded to “At-Risk.”