What Is Oberhasli Goat?

Oberhasli is a dairy goat breed that is one of the foundations of Alpine goats. It is known for its unique chamoisée pattern.

This is a medium-sized ruminant with a vigorous and alert appearance.

But to know what sets Oberhasli apart from other breeds, here are the distinguishing characteristics of Oberhaslis.

Oberhasli Goat’s Characteristics

Oberhasli dairy goats inherit their attributes from both parents because of their recessive genes. So they will be born with or without horns.

They have a straight face from the head and narrow down their jaw. Their ears can grow long and erect until they get mature. 

They also have straight noses and big eyes that are to be alert in their surroundings.

Oberhasli Goat Size

A matured male or buck Oberhasli goat can weigh up to 150 pounds and grow up to 30 inches tall.

However, the doe has always been smaller than bucks. They can only get up to 120 pounds and are as tall as 28 inches.

Oberhasli Goat Colors

Like other goat breeds, Oberhasli dairy goats have different color variations. 

They can be light tan or reddish brown with some dark shades depending on their parent’s dominant traits. 

Depending on their parent’s dominant and recessive genes, you can also find Black Oberhasli or plain white. But mostly, only the does have basic black color.

Their red hair is paired with black markings on their forehead, muzzle, tail, down-to-their belly, and legs below knees.

This pattern of their coats, especially the reddish brown one, is called chamoisée. 

Oberhasli Goat’s Origin and History

Oberhasli dairy goat came from Bern Canton, Switzerland. And they eventually spread to neighboring towns like Freiburg, Graubünden, and Glarus.

They were back then called as Oberhasli-Brienzer in Bern because they don’t have horns.

Oberhasli Goat Breed’s Temperament

All goat breeds have personalities that make them excellent and easy to raise livestock or pet.

And sometimes, this nature in goats is common and same. So, for beginner growers, here are the facts about Oberhasli’s disposition.

What is the Personality of an Oberhasli Goat?

Since this breed grew up and was developed in mountainous areas, they are more alert, active, competitive, and bold.

But they are friendly, quiet, and gentle like the other breeds. 

Uses of Oberhasli Goats

Although Oberhaslis are not as large as Boer goats and other large breeds, they are one of the biggest producers of dairy products. And they’re mainly developed as a dairy goat breed.

They can produce as many as 1650 pounds or equal to 750 kilograms with the lowest fat and increasing proteins in just 265 days.

That’s why they’re popular in Italy in producing fresh milk, yogurt, ricotta, and cheese.

How Often Do Oberhasli Goats Breed?

Oberhasli goats live for a short time compared to other breeds because they only have an average lifespan of ten years. 

However, they mature at an early age of 3 to 12 months. So, they can produce two to three kids half a year after their maturity.

Mostly, their breeding season starts in the fall and lasts for 17 to 23 days. Their fertility stage would occur in 12 to 48 hours after breeding.

Even if they’re not that productive in meat production, you’ll surely not regret raising them as your livestock.