Thinking about owning goats?
The homesteading craze has taken over the world since 2020! In the year that followed, it seemed like everyone was wanting to purchase some form of livestock, mostly in the form of chickens, rabbits or goats; supposedly, the easiest livestock animals to keep.
As a homesteader/small farm myself, this new fad was so exciting to see! I think that anytime individuals want to start taking control of their lives and choose healthier options for their families, it should be celebrated. But, with the craze that came, I also saw large amounts of hardships that came from people jumping headfirst into owning animals without the proper research and preparation. Lacking those two things can mean the difference between success and failure in any venture!
First, I want to share some of my experiences. When I purchased my first goats eight years ago, I had no idea what I was getting into! :)
Owning livestock of any kind is like an emotional roller coaster ride where one day you are filled with such overwhelming love and gratitude for the life you live, and the next day, you’re questioning your entire existence. Over the last eight years, I’ve learned more about goats than I ever thought I would. I’ve sold, I’ve purchased, I’ve lost some, and I’ve brought many into the world. There are always difficulties, but as I reflect on the past years, I see how much my goats have taught me and how much they’ve helped me to develop character and work ethic.
So, buckle up as I share a few tips, tricks and things to consider about goats!
1) Milk, Meat and Fiber
Milk is the main reason I purchased goats. I wanted to have a source of raw milk and be able to make goat milk soap. I’ve always wanted to have a dairy cow, but goats are significantly cheaper, easier to handle, and easier to breed. Many can be used as a multi-purpose breed, such as the Nubian or Lamancha. Other breeds are bred specifically for fiber production, such as the Angora. Whatever your homesteading goals are, there is a goat breed to suit your needs! The best thing to do is research and find the breed that best aligns with what you want to accomplish.
Looking for a cute pet? Try a Nigerian Dwarf or a Pygmy.
Looking for a meat breed? Try a Boer or Kiko!
Looking for a dairy breed? Try a Saanen!
Looking for a multi-purpose breed? Try a Nubian!
2) Find a Mentor
I cannot stress this enough! I’ve had many people over the years offer great advice at various stages of my learning process. Look for someone who has owned and bred goats for many years. Reach out to them about purchasing a goat and ask if they would be willing to share advice and resources. Most likely, if you find a reputable breeder and purchase a goat from them, they will be a lifelong resource.
3) Get Some Books!
Books are oh-so-helpful when it comes to quick reference. There are many times when I quickly reference my goat books for information about diseases, sicknesses, and treatment. Some of my favorite books include:
Storey’s Guide to Raising Dairy Goats- Storey's Guide to Raising Dairy Goats, 5th Edition: Breed Selection, Feeding, Fencing, Health Care, Dairying, Marketing: Belanger, Jerry, Bredesen, Sara Thomson: 9781612129327: Amazon.com: Books
50 Do-It-Yourself Projects for Keeping Goats- 50 Do-It-Yourself Projects for Keeping Goats: Fencing, Milking Stands, First Aid Kit, Play Structures, and More!: Garman, Janet: 9781510750128: Amazon.com: Books
Storey’s Guide to Raising Meat Goats- Storey's Guide to Raising Meat Goats, 2nd Edition: Managing, Breeding, Marketing: Sayer, Maggie: 9781603425827: Amazon.com: Books
4) Learn Basic Care
Keeping goats is not all that difficult, but there are many small things that you will need to learn and be comfortable doing. You need to know how to trim hooves. Goats need a trim every 4-6 weeks. You need to learn how to give goats shots in cases of emergencies or for yearly vaccinations. You need to know about parasites and how to check for anemia in the eyelids. You need to know how to disbud (remove the horns) or know someone who does. It may seem overwhelming, but most of it comes from learning by doing!
5) Fencing
This is one of the area’s that people get the most frustrated over! I will tell you that much of this problem has to do with the personality of your goat. I’m very blessed that I’ve never had a goat who loved to escape. My goats have always been happy and content to stay within their fencing. If I ever do have a goat that has its heart set on doing whatever it can to escape, I will rehome that goat. It’s not worth the effort, time and money to try and keep it contained. The best fencing for goats is either cattle panels or welded wire with a single strand of electric through the middle. Goats LOVE to itch themselves by rubbing against the fence. This wears the fence down quite quickly. Do your research and plan accordingly.
6) You Can’t have just one!
Goats are herd animals. They love friends! It is always best to have at least two goats, so they aren’t lonely. Besides, what’s one more animal going to hurt? :)
There’s a great amount of information out there, and each person has a different way of doing things. The best advice I can give is to just try it! You will learn the most from your own experiences.
One of the most wonderful things about owning livestock is that it is a journey where you never ever stop learning new things. Each day is different, bringing new adventures and challenges. In my experience, goats have been my favorite species of animal on the farm. They are almost like dogs- sweet and personable, each with their own distinct personality. They bring great joy to my life and the lives of those who visit the farm.
If you’re thinking about purchasing goats in the future, reach out to us! We can help you get started in finding the perfect breed to reach your goals.
