Oberhasli dairy goats display a unique combination of color and patterning which is all their own. And though their color and markings can be quite striking, it’s often the alert and inquisitive facial expression, the sweet natured temperment and the exceptional flavor of their slightly sweet milk that earns them such devotion from dedicated breeders.

What you can’t see in these photos are traits you must experience first hand. Learn what to look for here in appearance…but go out and meet the real thing if you truly want to learn about Oberhasli ! Check our OBI Directory for a breeder near you.

From birth to maturity… every Oberhasli exhibits these same striking looks.

Oberhasli are found both horned and polled (naturally hornless). In the U.S., dairy goats must be disbudded or polled if they are to be registered. Though horned Oberhasli are still quite common in Swiss herds, breeders are finding that having hornless goats for sale broadens their market for selling stock.

Bucks often have solid black faces, a ‘martingale’ of black hairs around their shoulders and solid black markings across their entire chest.

The dorsal (down the back) stripe can vary in width and length on both bucks and does. Bucks often have longer, thicker hair in this region which can give them a rangey, wild appearance, especially when in rut (during breeding season).

As an Oberhasli buck matures his beard becomes more distinguished. Occasionally older does will grow a cluster or strand of straggling hairs but not a true beard.

Like all the other alpine breeds, Oberhasli goats carry the genetic trait for ‘wattles’. Wattles are those little tufts of hair covered skin dangling at the throat of this young buck. They are considered vestigal organs left over from evolution and have no known purpose. When passed on, wattles are present at birth and can be found on both bucks and does.