The Saanen dairy goat originated in Switzerland, in the Saanen Valley. Saanen does are heavy milk producers and usually yield 3-4 percent milk fat. It is medium to large in size (weighing approximately 145 lbs/65kg) with rugged bone and plenty of vigor.

Does should be feminine, and not coarse. Saanens are white or light cream in color, with white preferred. Spots on the skin are not discriminated against. Small spots of color on the hair are allowable, but not desirable. The hair should be short and fine, although a fringe over the spine and thighs is often present. Ears should be erect and alertly carried, preferably pointing forward. The face should be straight or dished. A tendency toward a roman nose is discriminated against.

The breed is sensitive to excessive sunlight and performs best in cooler conditions. The provision of shade is essential and tan skin is preferable.

The name is derived from the location of the breed beyond the river Jamna (Jamna Par) in Uttar Pradesh . [ A distinct strain.cal1ed Ramdhan (also known locally as Kandari Ka Khana) originated from a cross between a doe from the Alwar region in Rajasthan and a Jamnapari buck; it has a typical nose shape, even more like a parrot mouth than is usual1y observed in the true breed. The strain is known to have better milk production and growth, but its flocks are very limited in number.]

Distribution: Agra, Mathura and Etawa districts in Uttar Pradesh and Bhind and Morena districts in Madhya Pradesh. However the pure stocks are found only in about 80 villages in the vicinity of Batpura and Chakar Nagar in Etawa district.