Chat
06-03-2014, 08:30 PM
You could always try them out as packers and just see how they do. I know *most* Nubians tend to be poor packing prospects, but there are exceptions to every rule. It would be a shame to sell these beautiful goats for meat. Even if they weren't amazing packgoat prospects, they might be plenty good enough for someone who isn't a serious hiker, and there's also a chance they would be excellent cart goats. That's one area where the Nubian's mild-mannered and gentle nature will work in their favor. Carting is not nearly as strenuous and does not require the endurance of pack work, and a gentle, people-oriented attitude is very important.
One thing that isn't often mentioned that runs in the Nubians' favor for working goat prospects is their great chestiness. They usually have a great brisket and deep chest, which is often the Alpines' weak spot. These guys also have very nice, sloping shoulders and look very strong. It wouldn't hurt to take them out for a few hikes and see how they do. Even without a pack, you may be able to get a decent idea of what their attitudes are like on the trail and whether they'll follow you willingly up some steep hills and across water. If they'll do that without a pack, there's a good chance they'll do it with one.
One thing that isn't often mentioned that runs in the Nubians' favor for working goat prospects is their great chestiness. They usually have a great brisket and deep chest, which is often the Alpines' weak spot. These guys also have very nice, sloping shoulders and look very strong. It wouldn't hurt to take them out for a few hikes and see how they do. Even without a pack, you may be able to get a decent idea of what their attitudes are like on the trail and whether they'll follow you willingly up some steep hills and across water. If they'll do that without a pack, there's a good chance they'll do it with one.