Robust Herds Begin Here: How Ellinger Boer Goats Optimizes Breeding through Intelligent Nutrition and Genetics
Breeding success doesn’t just come together — it’s crafted through tactics and attention. The other two points for Ellinger Boer Goats key success is feeding the goats and the selection of able goats for breeding purposes. These methods collectively produce a resilient and robust breed of goats.
The Hungry Goats: The Drive for Reproductive Success
Good genetics are nothing without great nutrition. Ellinger’s method of feeding the goats is based on the reproductive cycle. Every feed plan is formulated to provide the requirements for does and bucks, their energy, strength, and reproductive health.
Nutrition Through the Breeding Cycle:
1. Pre-Breeding
- Emphasize moderate body condition—neither too thin or overweight
- Feed high-quality hay or forage
- Don’t follow grain-heavy patterns that can make it difficult to get pregnant
- Selenium, zinc, copper and vitamin E add minerals to support immunity and reproduction
2. Early Pregnancy
- Maintain a balanced forage-based diet
- Refrain from an excess of grain to help avoid birthing difficulties associated with huge kids
3. Late Pregnancy
- Increase protein content to 14–16% using alfalfa or supplements
- Provide source of calcium and phosphorus to aid fetal development and for lactation
4. Lactation
- Feed 16–18% protein-rich diets
- Provide calcium-rich feeds such as alfalfa
- Offer fresh, clean water at all times for drinking and milk production
For greater detail on successful feeding plans, here’s a link to feeding the goats.
Genetics – The Key to Breeding Better Generations
While feed builds the body, genetics build the future. At Ellinger Boer Goats we take a purposeful, data-based approach when selecting goats for our breeding program and our selections are all made to ensure long-term success.
Traits Prioritized in Breeding Selection:
- Muscular, well-balanced body conformation
- Innate disease resistance and reduced medical expenses
- High fertility, ease of birthing, good maternal traits
To preserve herd quality, Ellinger practices no inbreeding and incorporates good, proven bloodlines. The result? Every generation will be better, stronger, and have more to show for their effort, whether on the show floor or the farm.
Learn more about smart selection techniques for goats for breeding and how genetics will deliver you results that last.
Practical Tips for Breeding Success:
- To put them into practice, follow these time-tested recommendations:
- Check body condition periodically and feed accordingly
- Fresh water should be available at all times, except during gestation
- Adapt your diet slowly to keep digestion in check
- Monitor goats attentively during critical phases of the cycle for timely intervention
Summary: Nutrition + Genetics = Long Term Success
At Ellinger Boer Goats, breeding is both an art and a science. Focusing equally on “feeding” goats and finding the best goats for breeding through, the farm produces a sustainable line of quality animals. Whether you are a long-time breeder, brand new enthusiast, or someone wanting to better capitalize on the beauty and purpose of these fine animals, Ellinger provides a guide for creating productive, profitable herds year after year.
Their proven methods help alleviate many common breeding problems, and promote healthier herd populations in the long-term. Under Ellinger, each goat is an investment in future performance and productivity.
