The Saanen dairy goat originated in Switzerland. It is medium to large in size with rugged bone and plenty of vigor. Does should be feminine, however, and not coarse. Saanen are white or light cream in color, with white preferred. Spots on the skin are not discriminated against. Small spots of color on the hair are allowable, but not desirable. The hair should be short and fine, although a fringe over the spine and thighs is often present. Ears should be erect and alertly carried, preferably pointing forward. The face should be straight or dished. A tendency toward a Roman nose is discriminated against.

EVALUATION OF DEFECTS  -  SUMMARY
1999 ADGA Guidebook -  (XVII) page 112
(SAANEN)
MODERATE DEFECTS 
Mature does less than -
Minimum height (30 in / 76 cm)
Minimum weight (135lbs / 61.36 kg)

Mature bucks less than -
Minmium height (32 in / 81 cm)
Minimum weight (170 lbs / 77.27 kg)

(SAANEN)
MODERATE TO SERIOUS DEFECTS
Roman nose
(SAANEN)
SERIOUS DEFECTS
Dark cream color
Several small dark spots in hair
(SAANENS)
VERY SERIOUS DEFECTS
SAANEN BREED SPECIFIC
DISQUALIFICATIONS
Page 115
Large (1 1/2" / 3.8 cm or more in any direction) dark spot in the hair.
Pendulous ears.

 
While the above information is correct to the best of our knowledge, NSBA makes no claims to its accuracy. 
For ADGA official Saanen Breed Standards contact the
American Diary Goat Association
P.O. Box 865
Spindale, NC 28160
1-828-286-3801
fax 1-828-287-0476
adgajdw2@aol.com
www.adga.org
Last updated November 2, 1999
Transferred to NationalSaanenBreeders.com 7/6/01
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