About the Author

Have you ever wondered why some years, some sires — or even some dams — produce more of one gender than others? Can certain management practices favor one over the other — or is it random? Is one more desirable than the other in the goat world?

The “why” of blood testing is easy. CAE and CL testing for goats allows us to control diseases. The “what” is a question unanswered for many: What do serology tests do? What don’t they do? What should we do with the results?

Many udder traits are hereditary. Ideally, selection occurs when choosing a buck and doe for breeding. Neither should have undesirable traits.

Yes, you read that right! Bucks can have udders — and some even produce milk! While it may seem unsettling — even freakish — it isn’t new or even rare.

Testicles make a buck a buck. The testicles produce testosterone and sperm, and the correct testicle anatomy comprises two equal-sized testicles in a single scrotum.