The Bagot goat is an ancient British goat breed, dating back to at least the fourteenth century. This small, hardy goat is well adapted to the climates of Great Britain.
The Bagot is the only British goat breed with a pedigree, and is among the oldest of the registered goats in the United Kingdom. It is believed to have descended from the medieval Bagot’s Park herd, which existed near Staffordshire in England.
The Bagot goat is a medium-sized goat, standing between 20 and 24 inches tall at the withers. Both bucks and does of the breed are horned. Does are usually solid black, brown, white, or gray while bucks may have mixed colors. All Bagot goats have a white stripe along the back, and a white blaze on their faces.
Bagot goats are hardy and adaptable to a variety of climates. They are easy keepers, able to thrive in poor conditions with minimal care. Though they are small in size, they are hardy and able to survive in cold temperatures without a shelter. They are also very social animals and form strong bonds with their owner.
The Bagot is primarily a dairy goat. Does produce between 1 to 4 liters of milk per day, which is high in butterfat. The milk is noted for its distinct flavor, making it popular for cheese, yogurt, and ice cream.
Bagot goats are also excellent browsers, able to handle brambles and woody plants with ease. They are docile and relatively easy to handle, making them popular as small homestead goats. They are also known for their ability to produce premium quality mohair.
The Bagot goat is a rare breed, with less than 400 animals registered in 2019. The popularity of the breed has decreased in recent decades, due to a diminishing demand for meat and dairy products. However, it is still a popular homestead animal, due to its hardy nature and easy keeping qualities.
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