Getting Started with Goats

Good planning is 90% of the work. Before you bring home your first goats, make sure you have the space, budget, and basic knowledge to give them a healthy, happy life.

First Things First: Legal & Neighborly

  • Zoning & Ordinances: Check your local town or county laws. Are livestock permitted on your property size? Are there restrictions on animal numbers, structures, or setbacks from property lines?
  • Talk to Your Neighbors: Let your direct neighbors know your plans. Explain your fencing and security measures. A friendly heads-up can prevent future conflicts.
  • Find a Vet: Locate a large-animal or livestock veterinarian who treats goats *before* you need one. Ask if they do farm calls. This is a critical step many beginners forget.
  • Goat-Proof Your Property: Goats are curious and will taste everything. Ensure there are no electrical cords they can chew on, plastic bags they could ingest, or poisonous ornamental plants (like azaleas or rhododendrons) within their reach.

Choosing Your Starter Herd

The golden rule is to never get a single goat. They are intensely social herd animals and will be stressed and destructive if kept alone.

  • Ideal Start: Two or three does (females) or two wethers (castrated males) make an excellent starter herd.
  • Avoid Bucks: Do not get an intact buck (male) at first. They have a strong odor, require very robust fencing, and can be aggressive. Use a "stud service" from a local breeder for your does.
Two healthy goats together in a pasture

Questions to Ask the Breeder

A reputable breeder will be happy to answer your questions. Don't be shy!

  • Disease Testing: Do you test your herd for CAE, CL, and Johne's disease? Can I see the most recent results? (Buying from a tested herd is the single best thing you can do for your herd's long-term health).
  • Vaccination & Deworming History: What vaccines have they had and when? What is your parasite management program?
  • Feed: What brand of feed and type of hay are they currently eating? (Get a small bag to help transition them slowly).
  • Temperament: Ask to see the parents (dam and sire) if possible. A calm dam often raises calm kids.
  • For Bottle Babies: If buying a bottle-fed kid, ask the seller to demonstrate that the kid will take a bottle easily from them. A kid that is not a confident bottle-feeder can be very difficult for a beginner.