Understanding Generations

01/15/2019

Understanding Generations: A first generation (F1) is either a cross between a Nigerian Dwarf (ND) and a standard-sized doe (one of the recognized dairy breeds) OR a cross between a miniature dairy goat and a standard-sized goat, or Nigerian Dwarf. Any of these crosses result in a first-generation miniature dairy goat.

Breeding an F1 to another F1 creates a second generation (F2). F2 x F2 = F3, and so on. (Foundation animals [ND or standard breed] are considered 0 generation in the mini dairy goat herd book.)

 

The generation of the kid is always one generation higher than the lowest generation of a parent. For example, if you breed an F3 to an F1, the kid is an F2. Even if you breed an F6 to an F1, the kid will only be an F2.