Goats are curious and intelligent animals and are becoming more and more popular as pets.
The number of people owning goats as pets has continued to rise, with over 50,000 people in Britain owning goats in 2016 according to the Daily Mail.
But is owning a goat as a pet that simple?
What are the best breeds of goats to take on as pets, what are some of the challenges and positives of owning a goat as a pet, and what are some things that I need to have in order to keep goats?
We are going to explore all of these questions and more in this article as we dive deeper into the topic of owning a goat as a pet.
Let’s get started!
What are some positives of owning goats as pets?
Goats have a friendly nature and are extremely curious and intelligent animals.
Because of this, they can make excellent companions for both pet owners and other animals.
Similar to dogs, goats are fun, playful, easy to handle, and loyal.
This makes them very loving pets and an excellent alternative to your usual type of pet.
Furthermore, goats have a life span of 12-14 years which means you will have a loving companion for a long time.
Keeping goats is also surprisingly inexpensive and easy to do once you get the hang of it, making them some of the most convenient animals to raise.
Another reason to own goats is the milk!
Goat’s milk is an excellent alternative to cow’s milk and has the added benefit of being easily digestible for people who are lactose intolerant.
You can enjoy the milk yourself or decide to sell it to make a little extra cash.
Additionally, the milk can also be used to make other dairy products such cheese and even more interesting products such as soap!
What are some challenges that come with keeping goats as pets?
While there are many things to love about goats there are, however, challenges that come with owning goats as pets.
Goats can be destructive, especially to furniture and gardens.
Goats love to chew and, as a result, will chew on your sofas, clothes, hair, pillows, and anything else that they can get their teeth into.
This is especially true for your bushes and grass so keep them away from your garden!
Goats also love to jump on things and don’t quite understand the concept of personal space!
This means that you are liable to find your goat climbing on the counters and tables and generally being in places that you don’t want them to be.
Goats are also extremely noisy and messy.
Goats, unlike cats and dogs, are not able to hold in their waste and, as a result, defecate frequently, usually exactly where they are standing, which can make keeping them inside the house a challenge.
They also like to be heard and can be excessively noisy.
Related – Are Goats Easy To Look After? (Or Are They Difficult?)
What is the best breed of goat to own as a pet?
While any breed of goat can technically be taken as a pet, the most popular breeds are those that are smaller in size as they generally weigh less and are easier to manage.
Of these smaller breeds, the most common and popular choices as pets are the Pygmy goat and the Nigerian Dwarf goat.
Regardless of the breed of goat, however, it is important that you are raising at least two at a time.
Goats are herd animals and are very sociable creatures.
It is, therefore, very important to ensure that your goats have at least one companion to socialise and play with.
This will greatly improve the mental and physical health of your goats, making it easier to train them, and will result in a more positive experience overall for both the pet and the pet owner.
Pygmy goats
Pygmy goats make excellent pets as they are generally docile and quiet.
As mentioned above, they are small in size, coming in at a height of approximately 16-23 inches for the males and slightly less for the females.
They can weigh anywhere from 55-85 pounds making them some of the lightest goats available and are comparable in size to a medium sized dog.
While they do produce milk, Pygmy goats are mainly raised for shows and as pets.
Nigerian Dwarf goats
Nigerian Dwarf goats are similar to Pygmy goats in that they are extremely small and compact.
They are comparable in height and weight but differ in that Nigerian Dwarf goats, in addition to being raised as pets and for show, are also raised for their milk and their meat.
Bucks vs Wethers
While the breed of goat you choose is an important decision, it is also important to consider if your goat is a buck or a wether.
A buck is a male goat while a wether is a male goat that has been castrated.
When deciding to have a goat as a pet it is important to understand the differences between the two before making your decision.
Bucks are generally more aggressive and have very strong odours which can make them very unpleasant to be around.
In comparison, wethers are much more docile and have a much more subdued scent.
As a result, whethers are probably the better option when getting a goat and it is recommended that you have your goats castrated when you purchase them.
What are some things you need to have to keep goats as pets?
There are a couple of things that you will need to consider when deciding to keep goats as pets.
Companionship
Goats are inherently social creatures, thriving best in the company of their own kind.
As herd animals, their well-being significantly depends on interactions with fellow goats.
Isolation can lead to stress, anxiety, and behavioral issues, making companionship not just a preference but a necessity for their mental health.
When considering adopting goats, it’s crucial to plan for at least a pair.
This ensures they enjoy a natural, happy, and socially enriched life.
Observing goats in a group, one can witness their playful dynamics and strong bonds, highlighting the importance of a companion in fulfilling their innate social needs.
Housing
When keeping goats, it is essential to have a suitable place for them to stay.
This can be in the form of a shed or similar structure (such as a large doghouse depending on the size and number of your goats).
It should be spacious and well-ventilated.
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It should also have heating facilities to keep the goats warm during the winter months.
While it is possible to keep goats in the house, it is much easier and less stressful to keep them outside.
Space and Environment
Adequate space is crucial for the health and happiness of goats.
As active and curious animals, they require a spacious outdoor area to explore, play, and graze.
A yard or pasture should provide a mix of sun and shade, with protection from strong winds and extreme weather.
For miniature breeds like Pygmy or Nigerian Dwarf goats, a large backyard may suffice, but larger breeds need more expansive grazing areas.
Ensure the environment is safe and secure, with sturdy fencing to prevent escapes and protect from predators.
Providing a natural, stimulating, and safe outdoor space is key to raising healthy and contented goats.
Fencing
There should be adequate fencing to keep them in one location.
Goats are foraging animals and will go looking for food everywhere, so creating an enclosure around them is essential to the effective raising of goats.
The quality of the fencing is also important.
Goats are very crafty animals and very good at escaping!
They also like to rub on and chew fences which can weaken and damage them.
It is, therefore, essential to have high-quality fences so that they are not easily broken, climbed over, or knocked down by the goats.
Diet and Nutrition
A balanced diet is essential for the health and well-being of goats.
While they are known for their ability to eat a variety of foods, it’s important to provide them with the right nutrition.
Goats primarily need high-quality forage, such as hay or fresh grass, which should make up the bulk of their diet.
This is crucial for their digestive system, which is adept at processing fibrous plant material.
In addition to forage, a small amount of specially formulated goat feed can supplement their diet, providing essential vitamins and minerals.
Be cautious with grain-based feeds, as overfeeding can lead to health issues like obesity and digestive problems.
Fresh, clean water must be available at all times, as hydration is key to their health.
Avoid feeding goats with human food scraps, as many common foods can be harmful to them.
Treats should be given sparingly and include healthy options like fruits and vegetables in moderation.
Remember, each goat breed may have specific dietary needs, so consult with a veterinarian or a goat nutrition expert to tailor the diet appropriately.
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Health and Veterinary Care
Regular health and veterinary care are vital for maintaining the well-being of goats.
Goats should undergo annual check-ups with a veterinarian experienced in farm animals.
These check-ups can help in early detection and treatment of potential health issues.
Vaccinations are crucial in preventing common diseases in goats.
Your vet can advise on the necessary vaccines based on your location and the specific health risks in the area.
Additionally, goats require regular deworming to prevent internal parasites, which are common in these animals.
Hoof care is another important aspect of goat health.
Their hooves grow continuously and need to be trimmed every 4-6 weeks to prevent overgrowth and associated problems.
Learning to trim hooves yourself or having a professional do it is essential.
Dental care is also important, especially for older goats, as dental issues can lead to feeding problems.
Regular monitoring and professional dental check-ups can help maintain their dental health.
Lastly, be aware of the signs of common illnesses in goats, such as changes in appetite, lethargy, abnormal feces, coughing, or nasal discharge.
Prompt veterinary attention to any unusual symptoms can prevent more serious health issues.
Behavioral Traits of Goats
Goats are renowned for their playful and inquisitive behavior, often displaying a charming blend of mischief and intelligence.
They are naturally curious animals, always keen to explore their surroundings, which can sometimes lead to amusing situations.
For instance, there’s the story of Benny, a Nigerian Dwarf goat known for his escapades.
One sunny afternoon, Benny’s owner found him on top of their car, gleefully jumping from the roof to the hood.
Despite the minor scratches on the car, it was hard not to laugh at Benny’s evident joy and agility.
This incident highlights how goats can turn anything into a playground, from farm equipment to, unexpectedly, vehicles!
Their playful nature often involves jumping, climbing, and exploring new heights.
It’s not uncommon to find them balancing on logs, climbing on small structures, or even attempting to scale fences.
This zest for exploration requires goat owners to ensure their environment is both stimulating and secure.
Goats also have a social side, enjoying interaction with both their herd and human companions.
They can form strong bonds with their owners, often greeting them with gentle head-butts or following them around the yard.
Their sociability and affectionate demeanor make them endearing pets.
Understanding and accommodating their playful and curious traits are key to keeping goats happy and healthy.
Providing them with a safe and engaging environment where they can satisfy their curiosity and playfulness is essential for any goat owner.
Legal and Ethical Considerations for Keeping Goats
Before bringing goats into your family, it’s crucial to navigate the legal and ethical landscape surrounding their ownership.
This ensures not only the well-being of the goats but also compliance with local regulations.
Zoning Laws and Permits
Firstly, check your local zoning laws.
Many urban and suburban areas have specific regulations about keeping livestock, including goats.
These laws can dictate the number of animals allowed, the size of the property required, and other housing conditions.
In some cases, you may need a permit or special approval to keep goats.
It’s essential to adhere to these regulations to avoid legal issues and ensure your goats have a suitable living environment.
Ethical Considerations
Ethically, responsible goat ownership involves providing adequate space, proper nutrition, and regular veterinary care.
It’s important to consider whether you can meet these needs in your living situation.
Goats are social animals and require companionship, so owning a single goat is generally discouraged.
Ethical ownership also means committing to the long-term care of your goats, which can live up to 15 years or more.
Community Relations
Be mindful of your neighbors.
Goats can be noisy and may affect those living nearby.
It’s a good practice to inform your neighbors about your plans to keep goats and address any concerns they might have.
Environmental Impact
Consider the environmental impact of keeping goats.
They can help manage land by grazing on overgrown vegetation, but they also need to be managed so they don’t harm local ecosystems.
By understanding and respecting these legal and ethical considerations, you can ensure a harmonious and responsible experience in keeping goats, both for you and your community.
Cost of Ownership
Understanding the financial commitment of owning goats is crucial for prospective owners.
While goats are often considered less expensive than other livestock, there are still significant costs involved in their care.
Initial Costs:
- Purchase Price: The cost of buying a goat can vary widely depending on the breed, age, and purpose (pet, dairy, or show). Prices can range from a modest amount for common breeds to several hundred dollars for specialty or show breeds.
- Housing: Setting up a suitable living space for goats involves initial costs. This includes fencing, shelter construction or adaptation, and bedding materials.
Ongoing Costs:
- Feeding: Goats require a diet of hay, fresh forage, and specialized goat feed. The cost of feed can fluctuate based on the season and availability. Expect to budget for consistent feed purchases.
- Health Care: Regular veterinary care, including vaccinations, deworming, and any unexpected health issues, contributes to the ongoing costs. Hoof care, either professional trimming or tools for DIY, is also a recurring expense.
- Supplements and Minerals: Goats need mineral supplements, especially in areas where the local forage lacks certain nutrients.
Additional Costs:
- Insurance: While not always necessary, livestock insurance can be considered, especially if you invest in high-value breeds.
- Emergency Fund: It’s wise to have a fund for unexpected veterinary emergencies or other unforeseen expenses.
Cost-Saving Tips:
- DIY Care: Learning to perform some routine care tasks yourself, like hoof trimming, can save money.
- Bulk Purchases: Buying feed and supplies in bulk can reduce costs in the long run.
In summary, while goats can be a more affordable option compared to other livestock, it’s important to budget for both initial and ongoing expenses to ensure they are well cared for throughout their lives.
Training and Interaction with Goats
Goats are not only playful and curious but also surprisingly trainable, thanks to their intelligence and desire to interact with their human caretakers.
Understanding their trainability and interaction potential can greatly enhance the experience of owning goats.
Trainability:
- Goats can learn a variety of commands and behaviors. Basic commands like ‘come’, ‘stay’, and ‘move’ are within their capability to understand and follow.
- Positive reinforcement techniques work well with goats. Using treats and gentle encouragement can motivate them to learn and participate in training sessions.
- Some owners successfully train their goats to walk on a leash, which can be a delightful way to exercise and bond with them.
Interactive Behaviors:
- Goats are naturally curious and enjoy exploring new objects and environments, making them fun to engage with in interactive play.
- They respond well to human interaction and can recognize individual people, often greeting their owners affectionately.
- Goats can participate in agility courses designed for them, which not only provides physical exercise but also mental stimulation.
Social Interaction:
- Regular, gentle handling from a young age can help goats become more comfortable and friendly with humans.
- They enjoy being part of family activities and can be quite sociable during gatherings, showing interest in new people and environments.
Considerations for Training:
- Patience and consistency are key in training goats. They have their own personalities and may require time to learn and adapt to commands.
- It’s important to establish yourself as the leader in the relationship, as goats are herd animals and respond to a clear hierarchy.
By investing time in training and interacting with your goats, you can develop a deeper bond and a more rewarding experience with these intelligent and engaging animals.
In conclusion, yes, goats can make excellent pets as long as you are willing to put in the effort.
Keeping goats requires a lot of patience and tolerance and shouldn’t be taken lightly.
Goats can be difficult animals to keep but once you understand how to take care of them and the different things they require, having goats as pets can be extremely enjoyable and rewarding.