Origin

The Saanen is a Swiss breed which originated in the Saane Valley. It is now the most popular dairy goat breed in many countries, including Australia.
Australian-bred Saanens are of world standard and have set many milk producing records. Saanens have been used in many parts of the world in grading-up local breeds.

Breed characteristics

Saanen does are heavy milk producers and usually yield between 3% and 4% fat.

The Saanen is a typical dairy-type animal, it has a dished or straight facial line and a wedge-shaped body. Saanens are of medium height when compared with the other Alpine breeds in Australia. Does weigh at least 64 kg. The average height measured at the withers, is about 81 cm for does and 94 cm for bucks.

The coat is all white or all cream and the hair is generally short and fairly fine although some may have longer hair along the spine, hindquarters, or both.. The ears are generally pointed and erect and the head is usually lightly structured.
Saanens are usually very docile animals and like to keep to a routine so are well-suited to machine milking. They respond quickly to affection.

The Saanen Doe

The Saanen Buck

The Saanen buck’s ability should be gauged by his reproductive performance and the quality and performance of his offspring. The buck should have good conformation and depth of body, be masculine but not coarse in appearance and have vigour.

The testicles should be of good size, well balanced and firm. The scrotum should be well placed, not divided and allow the testes to hang away from the body (not excessively).