We're new to dairy goats, and our first doe kidded on February 3. She nursed her doeling for 5 days, so she got the colostrum and a good, healthy start. Then the doeling went to her new home (with other goats and an experienced handler).
We have since been sort of crash coursing it on milking, but seem to be doing pretty well. The doe is a Boer/Alpine mix and is just now a yearling (she came to us already bred), and she has really taken to being milked. I'd say we average about a quart a day of milk from her.
From what I've read, dairy goats produce more milk when they get a little bit older and after their second kidding. So I'm wondering how soon should I breed her? How soon will she come into heat? And how long should I milk her into her pregnancy?
We have a billy on site, so it's not much of a hassle to just let her into his pen.
We have since been sort of crash coursing it on milking, but seem to be doing pretty well. The doe is a Boer/Alpine mix and is just now a yearling (she came to us already bred), and she has really taken to being milked. I'd say we average about a quart a day of milk from her.
From what I've read, dairy goats produce more milk when they get a little bit older and after their second kidding. So I'm wondering how soon should I breed her? How soon will she come into heat? And how long should I milk her into her pregnancy?
We have a billy on site, so it's not much of a hassle to just let her into his pen.
Choosing a buck depends on what you are breeding for. A nice dairy buck is a good start if you want dairy animals. Even better, you could add some pure-breed proven dairy does to form the base of your genetics. Start off with good and breed for better! Our Nubian doe is due 3/30, and I so desperately wish I was allowed to keep a doeling out of her. But thus, I ended up with a stray puppy and promised no more animals. All well, I guess I can't keep them all! Have fun with your goats, you will never stop learning with goats around. 
