Wondering if are goats good pets, and so did I before I got my first goat. The reason I was concerned was that I had limited space and small children which are not big concerns right now.
Are Goats Good Pets?
Over the years I have found that goats are often thought of as farm animals, but they can also make unique and enjoyable pets. Domestic goats have been domesticated for thousands of years and were originally kept for their milk, meat, and wool.
However, goats are now popular as pets for their playful and social personalities. Additionally, they will provide milk and meat for their owners. In this post I will look at are goats good pets?
Pros of Goats as Pets
Goats are known for their affectionate and social nature, making them a great choice for those who enjoy interacting with their pets. They are intelligent and can be trained to do tricks, such as walking on a leash or standing on their hind legs.
Goats can be friendly animals, but their personality can vary depending on how they are raised and socialized. Goats are naturally social animals and thrive in the company of other goats or animals.
They can become attached to their owners and be affectionate, but they may also be more reserved or timid if they are not used to being handled or socialized.
In general, I have found that goats that are raised around humans and handled regularly from a young age are more likely to be friendly and docile.
It is important to spend time with your goat, socializing and interacting with them, to help them become more comfortable and friendly.
Goats can also be trained to do tricks and obey commands similar to dogs. Spending time with your pet goat will help strengthen the bond between owner and goat.
Overall, goats can make friendly and affectionate pets for those who are willing to invest time and effort into socializing and training them.
However, it is important to remember that every goat is an individual with its own personality, and some may be more friendly or docile than others.
Goats are also one of the few pets that can provide their owners with milk and meat. Many people keep goats for their milk, which can be used to make cheese, yogurt, and other dairy products.
Goat meat, also known as cabrito or chevon, is lean and high in protein and is considered a delicacy in many parts of the world.
Goats are also helpful for controlling weeds and maintaining grassy areas. They are natural browsers and will happily munch on weeds, brush, and grass.
They are my natural choice for controlling overgrown areas. Goats are also low maintenance compared to other farm animals, as they do not require as much space or specialized care.
It is also easy to grow your own herd of goats. You can begin with two goats and in a few years, you will have many goats. Goats are known to give birth in five months to more than one kid.
Cons of Goats as Pets
Despite their many benefits, goats do have some drawbacks as pets. They can be destructive to gardens and landscaping, as they will chew on and eat almost anything they can reach.
This can be a problem for those with carefully tended gardens or landscaping. The only solution to this problem is to ensure that they don’t gain access to such areas.
Goats can also be loud and vocal, with a distinctive call that some people find irritating. I personally love the sounds made by goats. However, I am around a lot of farm animals and have probably gotten accustomed to animal noises.
Goats have a strong herd mentality and need companionship, so they should not be kept alone. It is recommended to keep at least two goats together, as they will become lonely and unhappy if left on their own.
Goats also require a larger living space compared to other small pets, such as dogs or cats. They need room to roam and explore, and a fenced-in area or pasture is necessary to keep them contained.
Finding a veterinarian familiar with goats can also be a challenge, as goats are not as common as dogs, cats, and other household pets. It is important to do research and find a veterinarian who has experience treating goats before adopting one as a pet.
How to Care for Pet Goats?
It is important to provide proper housing and fencing for your pet goats. Goats should have a secure and sturdy enclosure, such as a fenced-in pasture or a goat-proof pen.
The enclosure should be large enough to allow the goat’s room to move and explore and should have shelter from the elements.
Goats are also known to be adept at escaping enclosures, so it is important to make sure the fencing is secure and well-maintained.
Goats have specific dietary and nutrition needs, and it is important to feed them a balanced diet to keep them healthy. Goats are herbivores and should be fed a diet of hay, grass, and leafy greens.
They may also benefit from supplements, such as minerals and vitamins, to ensure they are getting all the nutrients they need.
It is important to research the specific dietary needs of goats and consult with a veterinarian or a goat-savvy nutritionist to ensure they are being properly fed.
Goats also require regular health and medical care to keep them in good condition. This includes regular check-ups, vaccinations, and parasite control.
Goats are prone to certain health issues, such as hoof problems and internal parasites. If you notice something off with our pet goats, it’s good to consult and have them checked before the problem becomes serious.
Final Thoughts on Pet Goats
Goats can make good pets for those with the proper knowledge, resources, and living space, but they may not be suitable for everyone.
I have kept different types of goats for many years and I love them. I hope this post on are goats good pets was helpful and provided some information that will help you make the best decision.
