How do you tell the difference between Nigerian dwarf and Pygmy?

[Rustic Green Acres]

Newbie mini goat owner here.
I am trying to figure out if my goats are Nigerian dwarf or pygmy? They where sold as Nigerian. But upon seeing some Nigerians, mine seem very stocky. It doesn't really matter what they are, I just want to know what I am looking at.

 

[frustratedearthmother]

I raised registered pygmies for several decades and was active in the show world for over 10 years. They are wonderful little animals.

I'm attaching some links for you to look at.

The first one is the breed standard.

https://www.npga-pygmy.com/_files/ugd/51ca65_6e2d33915ae946ef8b927c2c39d521a2.pdf

The second one is a link to accepted pygmy colors.

Examples of Colors in Pygmy Goats - National Pygmy Goats Association

Caramel Pattern The caramel color pattern can range FROM white to caramel hairs, intermingled with white in the top coat making the top coat appears to be a shade of white/cream to tan. The undercoat has the same base color (black or brown) as the dorsal stripes, socks, and face accents. Caramel...

www.npga-pygmy.com

Unless you buy from a breeder of pure pygmies it's hard to find a pure pygmy anymore. There has been so much cross/interbreeding between the two breeds.

Your gals are pretty stocky, but I've seen Nigi's that were as stocky. The one girl with all the white, is cute! But, she either isn't pure pygmy or she's mis-marked. Their faces are a little long, as well as their necks. It's entirely possible that they are crosses. Whatever they are - they look to be in good shape and will hopefully do well for you.

 

[Rustic Green Acres]

I raised registered pygmies for several decades and was active in the show world for over 10 years. They are wonderful little animals.

I'm attaching some links for you to look at.

The first one is the breed standard.

https://www.npga-pygmy.com/_files/ugd/51ca65_6e2d33915ae946ef8b927c2c39d521a2.pdf

The second one is a link to accepted pygmy colors.

Examples of Colors in Pygmy Goats - National Pygmy Goats Association

Caramel Pattern The caramel color pattern can range FROM white to caramel hairs, intermingled with white in the top coat making the top coat appears to be a shade of white/cream to tan. The undercoat has the same base color (black or brown) as the dorsal stripes, socks, and face accents. Caramel...

www.npga-pygmy.com

Unless you buy from a breeder of pure pygmies it's hard to find a pure pygmy anymore. There has been so much cross/interbreeding between the two breeds.

Your gals are pretty stocky, but I've seen Nigi's that were as stocky. The one girl with all the white, is cute! But, she either isn't pure pygmy or she's mis-marked. Their faces are a little long, as well as their necks. It's entirely possible that they are crosses. Whatever they are - they look to be in good shape and will hopefully do well for you.

Thank you so much. I was finding it hard to research. They are such a joy to have.

 

[frustratedearthmother]

You're very welcome! Enjoy them!

 

[EweAreKiddingMe!]

They look like a mix