Genetic Determinants of Milk Production Phenotypes in Dairy Goats: A Review

Abstract

Simple Summary Goats are a mainstay of milk production in dry and difficult regions, supporting the livelihoods of millions of smallholder farmers and supplying milk that is nutritious, easy to digest, and less likely to trigger allergies than cow milk. Yet breeding goats for higher and better-quality milk has progressed more slowly than in dairy cattle. Modern DNA-based tools can accelerate this progress by pinpointing the genes that shape how much milk a goat produces and how rich it is in fat and protein. This review brings together findings from many studies to identify which genes most reliably influence these traits and how they act inside the udder. Such knowledge allows breeders to select superior animals earlier and more accurately. Realizing these benefits will require larger, carefully recorded goat populations and the combining of different biological datasets, ultimately helping farmers raise more productive herds and improving the supply of high-quality goat milk.