So, you’ve fallen in love with Miniature Dairy Goats and want to take your goat game to the next level—showing! Whether you’re new to goats altogether or you’ve been raising them for a while, entering the show ring is a fun and rewarding way to connect with fellow goat enthusiasts, promote your herd, and gain valuable feedback on your breeding program. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to help you get started showing your Miniature Dairy Goats in Texas.
Step 1: Become a Member of the Miniature Dairy Goat Association (MDGA)
Before you step into the show ring, your Miniature Dairy Goats need to be registered with a recognized registry. The Miniature Dairy Goat Association (MDGA) is the leading organization for Mini Nubians, Mini LaManchas, Mini Alpines, and other Miniature Dairy Goat breeds.
Becoming a member of MDGA opens the door to a community of breeders and resources that support both beginners and experienced goat keepers. Here’s what you’ll get with your membership:
🐐 Official Registration Services
- Register your Miniature Dairy Goats and maintain accurate pedigree records
- Access to all Experimental, American, and Purebred herdbooks
- Register herd names and tattoos, which are essential for showing
🏆 Show and Performance Programs
- Eligibility to participate in MDGA-sanctioned shows (like Dance Across Texas)
- Access to Virtual Shows—great for folks who can’t travel
- Participate in Milk Testing which allows breeders to track production, improve their herds, and earn Star designations for goats based on MDGA’s 305 or 1-Day milk testing programs..
📚 Educational Resources & Community
- Receive the MDGA Newsletter, packed with tips, breeder highlights, and program updates
- Join a supportive community of breeders across the U.S. and beyond
- Gain visibility through MDGA’s Breeder Directory—great for connecting with potential buyers and other breeders
💸 Affordable Annual Membership
- Individual and family memberships available
- Discounts on registration fees and other services for active members
Whether you’re showing, breeding, or just raising goats for fun, MDGA provides the foundation you need to take your herd to the next level.
Step 2: Join Texas Mini Milkers and Sign Up for the Dance Across Texas Show Series
Once you’ve joined MDGA and registered your goats, it’s time to plug into your local show scene. Texas Mini Milkers is a fantastic state-wide group that promotes the Miniature Dairy Goat community across Texas. Membership gives you access to local events, news, networking opportunities, and important show updates.
One of the most exciting show circuits for MDGA members in Texas is the Dance Across Texas Show Series—a multi-show lineup held across the state that allows you to rack up points toward year-end awards and titles.
👉 Join Texas Mini Milkers
👉 Sign up for the Dance Across Texas Show Series
Step 3: Enter Shows Using the Showman App
Now that you’re registered and connected, you’ll need to enter your goats into shows, and the easiest way to do that is through the Showman app. All Texas Mini Milker shows will use the Showman website to handle entries.
The Showman app is a user-friendly platform where you can:
- Browse upcoming shows
- Submit entries for each show
- Pay entry fees
- Check show results
To get started:
- Create an account on Showman.app
- For Youth in the Dance Across Texas Show Series, enter as an Exhibitor on your Showman account, and add the goats they will be showing to the Youth Exhibitor.
- Search for “Dairy Goats” and then “Texas” to find our shows.
- Enter your goats and follow the instructions provided by each show’s organizer.
Final Thoughts
Showing Miniature Dairy Goats is more than just ribbons and legs—it’s a rewarding experience that helps you grow as a breeder, handler, and member of the dairy goat community.
When you enter the show ring, you’re not only showcasing your hard work and your goats’ genetics—you’re also gaining valuable feedback from judges that can guide your breeding program. Each show is an opportunity to learn from experienced breeders, network with fellow enthusiasts, and promote your herd to potential buyers or collaborators.
For youth, it’s an incredible way to build responsibility, confidence, and sportsmanship, while adults enjoy the camaraderie and shared passion for these unique and productive animals.
So gather your gear, prep your goats, and take that first step into the ring—you’ll gain more than just ribbons. You’ll build skills, friendships, and memories that last a lifetime. Whether it’s your first show or your fiftieth, there’s always something new to learn and celebrate in the world of Miniature Dairy Goats.
See you in the ring—and don’t hesitate to reach out to Rafter O if you need anything along the way! 🐐✨
