So you want a pet goat! Awesome, but you really want TWO pet goats and here's why... goats are herd animals and a single goat will be a very lonely goat. So when considering becoming the proud owner of a pet goat, be sure to factor in at least 2 goats and you and your pets will be much happier.

Keeping goats as pets can be rewarding, or aggravating. Although some goats do make excellent pets, they require commitment on the part of their owners to do well, and anyone considering a pet goat should think carefully before taking the plunge. You may be restricted by local laws if you live within the limits of an incorporated area, and you should check for access to a veterinarian who is able to care for your goats. You'll also need someone to care for your goats when you are away.

Why not just one goat?

Goats are herd animals, which means that you should plan on keeping at least two goats if you want them as pets. Goats want the companionship of their own kind and this is why we prefer not to sell single goats to people who do not already have one or more goats. We want your pets to be happy and I'm sure you do as well.



Should I get a goat with or without horns?

There are arguments for and against having a goat with horns. I have heard: A goat with horns can be a danger to himself, you and other animals... or it's too traumatic to disbud (dehorn) baby goats... etc. We have goats with and without horns and they all do well together. As long as you take proper care so that they do not get caught in fences or accidentally poke you... you should be just fine with a horned goat. If you plan to show your goats, of course they will need to be disbudded. We disbud all of our babies unless a buyer requests otherwise.

Are goats OK by themselves?

Although they are hardy and adventurous, goats are not self-sufficient. They require daily attention including food, play, and water. If you are keeping goats as milk producing animals in addition to pets, they will need to be milked one to two times a day to prevent mastitis, a painful infection of the udders. Goats can also get aggressive if they are bored or sense that you are afraid, which can result in a painful butting. Billy goats, in particular, can be obnoxious if unaltered.

Should I get a male or female?

We don't recommend that you keep an unaltered male (buck) as a pet, we feel these are for breeding only. They can be aggressive, have a terrible habit of urinating on themselves (this is how they attract females) and they emit strong hormonal odors. However, an altered male, known as a wether, makes a wonderful pet. With his sex drive removed, his sole focus will be on food and companionship. The better you treat them, the more they will love you in return (then again, this goes for almost any pet).

A female (doe) also makes a good pet but can emit hormonal odors. A female can be a future breeder if you so choose, can provide you with milk if you do decide to breed her and still be a wonderful pet.

We suggest that you start with either two wethers, two does or a doe and wether. Never start with more than you can handle so try not to be over anxious when getting your first goats. Take into consideration their housing and other requirements before taking the plunge.

Registered or unregistered?

Our standpoint is this... is costs the same to feed an unregistered goat as it does a registered goat. Registered goats will cost more but if you plan to show, breed or sell them later on, you'll be much better off. In the end, the choice is based on your particular needs.