Raising Goats for Beginners: What I Wish I Knew Before Starting

Hey y’all! If you’re thinking about adding goats to your homestead, you’re in for a fun ride. Goats are some of the smartest, sassiest, and sweetest critters you’ll ever meet. But don’t let their cute faces fool you—they do require some know-how to keep ’em happy and healthy.

When I first started raising goats, I had no clue what I was getting into. So, here’s the down-low from my experience….what you need to know as a beginner to raise goats that thrive and maybe even steal your heart (like mine did).

Why Goats? Why Not?

First off, goats are amazing for all kinds of reasons. They’re great for milk, meat, clearing brush, or just being hilarious little pets. They eat weeds most animals won’t touch, they’re curious as heck, and they can be super affectionate once you gain their trust.

Plus, they’re great for small farms or even big backyards if you have the right setup. But you gotta be ready to put in the work.

What You Need to Get Started

Okay, let’s talk basics:

• Shelter: Goats don’t like to get wet or cold. A simple 3-sided shed with plenty of straw bedding works wonders. They’re hardy but appreciate a dry, draft-free spot.
• Fencing: Goats are escape artists. Trust me, they’ll find every hole, weak spot, or low place to squeeze through. Use sturdy fencing at least 4 feet tall and check it regularly. Electric fencing helps too.
• Feed: Good hay is a must. Goats love browsing leaves and weeds, but hay is their main diet. You can add grain for extra nutrition, especially in winter or if they’re pregnant or nursing.
• Water: Fresh, clean water all day, every day. Goats are picky about water, so keep it fresh!
• Minerals: Goats need minerals like salt, calcium, and selenium. Get loose minerals specifically for goats and keep them available.

Picking Your First Goats

If you’re new, start small—maybe two goats so they don’t get lonely. Some good beginner breeds are:

• Nigerian Dwarf: Small, friendly, great for milk.
• Pygmy: Tiny, cute, and full of personality.
• Boer: Bigger, great for meat and brush clearing.
• Alpine or Nubian: Great milk producers but a bit higher maintenance.

Avoid mixing bucks and does unless you’re ready for babies! Or plan to neuter your boys.

Daily Goat Life: What To Expect

Goats are curious little explorers. They’ll check out everything, climb on anything, and test you more than once. Here’s what a typical day looks like:

• Morning feeding and water check.
• Quick barn and fence inspection (fix those escape routes!).
• Watch ’em browse and play—goats love to jump and climb.
• Check for any signs of illness or injury.
• Give ’em some love and scratches—goats love attention.

Health & Vet Care

Don’t skip this! Goats need regular hoof trimming every 4–6 weeks, vaccinations, and parasite control. Worms are a common problem, so work with a vet to keep your goats parasite-free.

Learn how to spot common issues like:

• Lameness or limping
• Runny nose or cough
• Loss of appetite
• Diarrhea
• Swollen joints or udders

Early detection means easier fixes.

Breeding & Baby Goats

If you plan to breed, know that goats are pregnant for about 5 months. Make sure mama gets extra good feed and care in late pregnancy.

Watching a doe give birth is one of the coolest things on the farm, but be ready to help if needed. Keep the kidding area clean and safe.

The Challenges (Because Real Talk)

Goats can be stubborn, noisy, and escape-prone. They’ll eat your garden, your clothes, and sometimes your patience. They need daily attention and care.

But the joy they bring? Totally worth it.

Final Thoughts

Raising goats is a wonderful adventure, but it’s not a “set it and forget it” kind of thing. They need you, and you’ll get to know their personalities and quirks better than you ever expected.

Start small, keep learning, and enjoy every bit of the ride. Goats have a way of stealing your heart—and your favourite hat.

Got questions? I’m here for all your goat-growing stories and tips!