Frequently Asked Questions - General Goat Care
Welcome to our comprehensive guide to all things goats! Whether you're seeking a beginner's guide to dairy goat keeping, eager to dive deeper into the essentials of getting started with a dairy goat herd, or expanding your goat-keeping knowledge, you've come to the right place. Our 15 years of experience holistically raising Nigerian Dwarf goats for our hobby dairy farm has given us a great deal of information and insights and we are happy to share with you to make your experience with Nigerian Dwarf goats as enjoyable and rewarding as possible.
Explore our FAQs to gain valuable knowledge that will empower you on your goat-keeping adventure. We also share our daily experiences on Instagram so be sure to give us a follow if you you're looking for micro-learning opportunities... and also cute baby goats!
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We are now offering Goat Classes: Check out our Homestead Academy for classes on basic goat care to advanced breeding and kidding.
If you don't see your question listed here, please contact us and we would be happy to answer it.
What do I need to know/have to care for my new baby goat?
What kind of housing/shelter/fencing do goats require?
Can I have goats in a small backyard?
Can I bottle feed my babies? And how do I go about doing it?
How often do goats need their hooves trimmed?
Can I remove a goat’s horns after they have grown in?
What is the difference between disbudding and dehorning?
Are horns dangerous for goats or their handlers?
What are scurs, and how do they differ from horns?
Should I get goats with or without horns?
What should I do to care for my goat after disbudding?
Do goats need their ears cleaned?
How long until the scrotum falls off a wether after banding?
What should I do to care for my wether after banding?
Do I have to milk my goat if she’s a girl?
What vitamins and supplements do goats require?
Do goats need vaccines?/ What vaccines do goats need?How to treat goats for parasites - internal and external.
How hard are goats to keep? Do they require a lot of maintenance?
How to contain a goat with good fencing?
Does my goat have worms?/How to treat my goat for worms.
Does my goat have lice/mites/fleas?/How to treat my goat for lice/mites/fleas.
Does my goat have bloat?/How to treat my goat for bloat.
Does my goat have a cold?/How to treat my goat for a cold/respiratory infection.
What is a doe?/What is a female goat called?
What is a wether?/What is a neutered goat called?
What is a buck?/What is an intact, breeding male goat called?
What is a kid?/What is a baby goat called?
What does disbudded/dehorned mean?
If I have doe (female goat), do I have to milk her?
What is the difference between Nigerian Dwarf goats and other goats?
What is the average lifespan of a goat?
What are the breed standards/characteristics for Nigerian Dwarf goats?
What is the smallest goat breed?
What is the difference between Nigerian Dwarf goats and Pygmy goats?
Can my goat live with my chicken?
Can I get a goat as a companion for my horse?
How many goats do I need?/Should I get two goats?
What is the best way to transport goats?
Are Nigerian Dwarf good for meat?
Are Nigerian Dwarf goats good for milk?
Goat Care & Keeping
What do I need to know/have to care for my new baby goat?
Whether you're a farmer, a hobbyist, or simply an animal lover, you're going to want to give your baby goat the best possible start in life. This article goes into detail about what we recommend prior to bringing your new baby goats home.
What do goats eat?
We all think of those iconic goats chewing on a tin can when we think, "what can goats eat?" However, goats actually have very specific dietary needs and restrictions. While they can and will eat weeds, this alone is not a suitable diet and you will have sick goats on your hands very quickly. We have written a very detailed article about what goats need and what we feed our herd.
What kind of housing/shelter/fencing do goats require?
Goats require protection from the elements and predators. Here in our area, we have coyotes, bobcats, mountain lions, raccoons, and even bears. We employ two livestock guardian dogs, or LGD’s, who are on patrol 24/7. This is a predator-friendly way of protecting our animals (and humans!) without having to harm the predators. Read our comprehensive guide to building predator and weather proof housing for your goats
Can I have goats in a small backyard?
While our miniature goats are small and do not need as much space as larger livestock, they still require sufficient space to run and play. Goats penned in small spaces 100% of the time are not as healthy and happy as those who have the freedom to roam. More importantly, usually, people with “small backyards” are not in areas zoned to legally have livestock animals. Goats are not considered pets by most cities. You will need to contact your local zoning commission to see what your property is permitted to have.
Read our comprehensive guide to building predator and weather proof housing for your goats
Can I bottle feed my babies? And how do I go about doing it? Are you wondering if bottle babies are right for you?
This detailed overview of bottle feeding schedules and requirements is a good place to start to see if bottle babies are a good fit for you. Bottle feeding your new baby goat is going to give you a huge payback for your time in their temperament. We bottle train all of the kids but unless there are special circumstances, they stay with their moms until they wean/go home. The ideal age to get them is 3-4 weeks old and then bottle feed 2-3 times per day. This makes for very friendly but well-mannered goats. Some people want them while they are fully dependent on bottles. In this case, we usually wait about a week to make sure they are developing well and really ready to go home.
How often do we need to trim our goat’s hooves?
Trimming a goat's hooves is an essential part of regular care. The frequency of trimming depends on various factors, including the goat's age, breed, diet, and the environment in which they live. For example, goats who are kept on a rocky, hard ground will need fewer trimmings than goats kept on sandy soils. In general, most goats require hoof trimming every 6 to 10 weeks.
Can I remove a goat’s horns after they have grown in?
Sometimes, even with the best prevention methods in place, horns or scurs can develop. However, once a goat's horns have fully grown, removing them is a difficult, invasive procedure that requires surgery and carries risks like infection, pain, and complications. It is our opinion that these methods are inhumane and we generally do not recommend them unless absolutely necessary for the goat's safety or health.
A “popular” albeit, inhumane method to remove large scurs and horns is to use castration bands around the base of the horn. This cuts off the circulation to the horn causing it to eventually fall off. This is an intensely painful procedure that takes months of pain in order to be effective. We have talked to breeders who have used this method and while it does work, the goat was never the same after experiencing so much pain for weeks.
Preventing horns through disbudding (when the goat is a few days old) is a much safer option.
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Read more about goat horns in our detailed article on Goat Horns.
What is the difference between disbudding and dehorning?
Disbudding is the process of preventing horns from growing by removing horn buds when a goat is just a few days old. It is a relatively quick and safe procedure when done properly. Dehorning, on the other hand, is the removal of fully grown horns through surgery, which is invasive and carries more risks, such as pain, infection, and complications.
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Read more about goat horns in our detailed article on Goat Horns.
Are horns dangerous for goats or their handlers?
Yes, horns can pose a danger. Goats with horns can accidentally injure other goats, humans, or even themselves. Horns can get caught in fencing or other objects, leading to injury or escape attempts. While some goat owners prefer horns for aesthetic or natural purposes, it’s important to consider safety, especially in mixed herds.
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Read more about goat horns in our detailed article on Goat Horns.
What are scurs, and how do they differ from horns?
Scurs are small, irregular growths that can occur after a goat has been disbudded. They are not full horns and typically don’t grow in a normal shape. Scurs are usually softer and more brittle than horns, but they may require occasional trimming to prevent them from causing discomfort or injury.
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Read more about goat horns in our detailed article on Goat Horns.
Should I get goats with or without horns?
This is largely a matter of personal preference and management style. Horns can add to the goat’s natural appearance but may pose risks in terms of safety and management. Many breeders and pet owners choose to disbud their goats to prevent horn growth, making them easier to handle and reducing the risk of injury.
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Read more about goat horns in our detailed article on Goat Horns.
What should I do to care for my goat after disbudding?
After disbudding, it’s important to monitor your goat for any signs of infection or excessive discomfort. Keep the disbudded area clean and dry, avoiding excessive handling or exposure to dirt. Some breeders recommend applying an antiseptic spray like Vetricyn to the area to prevent infection. Monitor the site for any swelling, redness, or discharge, which could indicate infection. Goats usually recover quickly, but make sure they have a clean environment and aren’t stressed during the healing process.
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Learn more about caring for your goats in our article on Caring for Your New Baby Goat.
Do goats need to be bathed?
In general, goats do not require regular bathing. Some people who handle and snuggle their goats, especially when babies, like to give them a bath every week or so. But as a whole, their coats are designed to shed dirt and debris naturally.
Additionally, frequent bathing can strip the natural oils from their hair and skin, leading to dryness and potential health issues. There are situations where bathing may be necessary such as a show goat, a sick goat or a goat who had a messy delivery. Spot cleaning and even shaving are good options when a goat needs to be cleaned up for medical or health reasons such as blood or feces on their coat.
If you do deiced to bath your goats, be sure to use the most natural and gentle shampoos available and gently blow dry them all the way to their skin to prevent a chill.
Do goats need their ears cleaned?
Goats typically do not require regular ear cleaning. However, there are specific situations that may necessitate ear attention. If goats show signs of excessive scratching, head shaking, or dark discharge, it could indicate the presence of ear mites or ticks, prompting the need for cleaning. Additionally, ear infections or the buildup of earwax might require gentle cleaning, especially if signs of redness, swelling, or unpleasant odors are observed. In such cases, using a goat-safe ear cleaner and seeking veterinary advice can help address these special situations effectively.
How long until the scrotum falls off a wether after banding?
When banding a male goat (wether) to create a castration effect, a strong rubber band is typically used to cut off the blood supply to the scrotum. The scrotum will then atrophy and fall off over time. The process usually takes a few weeks, but the exact timing can vary. In most cases, it may take anywhere from 2 to 6 weeks for the scrotum to completely slough off after banding. During this time, it's essential to monitor the goat for any signs of infection or complications. Ensure that the goat is kept in a clean environment to minimize the risk of infection.
What should I do to care for my wether after banding?
Caring for a wether (castrated male goat) after banding is crucial to ensure a smooth recovery and minimize the risk of complications. The first 24 hours are when the goat is the most uncomfortable. You can ask your vet or breeder for pain management. We have started to give banamine as a part of our banding procedure. There are also now banding rings with slow release pain medication available! When you get your wether home, provide a clean environment and monitor for complications. As they tissue dies, it will begin to separate from the healthy tissue. This is when it is important to inspect the scrotum daily to ensure the tissues stay healthy. We recommend spraying it with Vetricyn daily to help prevent infection and speed healing.
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Learn more about caring for your goats in our article on Caring for Your New Baby Goat.
Do I have to milk my goat if I get a girl?
Goats are mammals and like all mammals, only females make milk and they must give birth to make the milk. It is very easy to keep does (females) without having to milk them. There are rare exceptions to this rule. Some female goats will develop what is called a precocious udder and produce a milk like substance. This is indicative of a major health problem and should be treated by a veterinarian.
We also highly recommend all goat owners acquire a milk stand regardless of the gender or purpose of their goats. It is essential to be able to contain your goats to provide them with necessary care. Hoof trimming, medication/vitamin administration, examination, bathing, blood work all require a restrained goat and the best way to do this is what a milk stanchion. Be sure to use the stand often and teach your goats to feel safe by giving treats in the stand.
What vitamins and supplements do goats require?
Goats require a balanced diet supplemented with goat-specific loose minerals to meet their nutritional needs, as blocks are not effective for their tongues. Key supplements include free-choice zinc (e.g., Zinpro), copper boluses for adequate copper levels, and selenium for reproductive and muscle health, especially in deficient regions. Kelp can be offered as a supplement for added nutrients but should not be provided free choice to avoid iodine imbalance.
Do goats need vaccines?/ What vaccines do goats need?
Vaccines can be a vital part of keeping your goat herd healthy, but it's important to consult your vet to determine the specific needs of your goats based on their environment and management. One of the most commonly recommended vaccines is the CDT vaccine, which protects goats from two deadly diseases: Clostridium perfringens types C and D (enterotoxemia, also known as overeating disease) and Clostridium tetani (tetanus).
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Enterotoxemia often occurs when goats consume high-carbohydrate diets or experience sudden diet changes, leading to sudden death. The CDT vaccine helps prevent this by building immunity against Clostridium perfringens.
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Tetanus can be introduced through wounds and injuries, causing severe muscle stiffness and spasms, which can be fatal if untreated.​
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Another vaccine sometimes used, especially for goats that are shown or kept in larger herds, is the Mannheimia haemolytica or Pasteurella multocida vaccine, which helps protect against pneumonia. Your vet can advise if this or other vaccines are needed for your herd based on exposure risks.
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While vaccines are important, maintaining proper herd health also relies on practices like gradual diet changes, clean housing, proper wound care, and parasite management.
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Learn more about goat care in our Caring for Your New Baby Goat article.
How hard are goats to keep? Do they require a lot of maintenance?
Goats are relatively easy to care for as long as their needs are met, but they do require regular attention to keep them healthy. Contrary to the common misconception, goats can't live on weeds and garbage as portrayed in movies. They need species-appropriate feed, including quality hay, minerals, and supplements. Routine hoof trimming (every 6-10 weeks), parasite management, and clean, weather- and predator-proof housing are also key to keeping goats healthy.
When it comes to vaccines and parasite prevention, it’s important to consult your vet about the risks specific to your region and herd rather than following a one-size-fits-all approach. Providing fresh water, safe shelter, and a balanced diet will ensure your goats thrive.
Learn more about What to Feed Your Goats, Shelter and Fencing Requirements for Goats, and Caring for Your New Baby Goat.
Will my goat run away?
​Goats are curious and social animals that tend to stay close to their herd or familiar environment. While they generally don’t "run away" like other animals might, they are excellent escape artists. If fencing isn’t secure or if there are enticing food sources nearby, goats may wander off to explore. Keeping your goats in a secure, well-fenced area and providing them with mental stimulation and adequate food will help prevent them from wandering.
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Read more about goat shelters and fencing in our detailed article on Shelter and Fencing Requirements for Goats.
How many goats per acre?
The number of goats you can keep on an acre depends on several factors, including the type of land, available forage, and your management style. For Nigerian Dwarf goats, you can typically keep 6 to 10 goats per acre if you provide supplemental feed such as hay. These goats need room to roam, graze, and exercise, and giving them sufficient space reduces the risk of illness and stress. If you're practicing rotational grazing, you may be able to increase your stocking density by rotating goats between pastures.
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It’s important to also check your local zoning laws, as each county or city has specific regulations about the number of livestock that can be kept on a property. Be sure to consult your local zoning or agricultural office to verify that your property is zoned for livestock and that you’re compliant with any animal density limits.
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Read more about goat shelters and fencing in our detailed article on Shelter and Fencing Requirements for Goats.
How to contain a goat with good fencing?
Goats are agile and curious, making secure fencing essential. Woven wire or welded wire fencing with a height of at least 4 to 5 feet is recommended to prevent escapes. Electric fencing can be added for extra deterrence, especially along the top or bottom of the fence. Always ensure the fence is taut and sturdy, as goats may lean or climb on it. Regularly check for any weak spots or gaps where a goat could squeeze through.
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Read more about goat fencing in our detailed article on Shelter and Fencing Requirements for Goats.
Does my goat have worms/parasites?/How to treat my goat for worms/parasites.
Internal parasites, especially worms, are a common concern for goat owners. Signs of a worm infestation include weight loss, diarrhea, poor coat condition, anemia (pale eyelids), and reduced energy. Regular fecal testing is essential to monitor worm loads. Common worm types include barber pole worms and roundworms, which can cause severe issues if left untreated.
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Conventional treatments often involve the use of dewormers, such as fenbendazole or ivermectin, based on fecal test results. Deworming should be done strategically to avoid resistance. Always consult your vet for a deworming schedule and product recommendations tailored to your herd.
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Natural treatments focus on preventing worms through rotational grazing, maintaining clean pastures, and using herbal dewormers such as garlic or wormwood blends. Adding copper boluses can also help reduce worm burdens, as copper deficiencies are linked to increased parasite loads.
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Learn more about internal parasites and prevention in our upcoming article on [Parasite Management for Goats].
Does my goat have lice/mites/fleas?/How to treat my goat for lice/mites/fleas.
External parasites such as lice, mites, and fleas can cause itching, hair loss, and discomfort in goats. Lice infestations are often visible around the neck and shoulders, while mites may cause crusty skin and severe itching, especially on the legs and ears.
Conventional treatments for lice and mites include topical sprays or powders containing permethrin or pyrethrin, or injectable medications like ivermectin. These treatments should be repeated as necessary to break the parasite life cycle. Always consult your vet for guidance on dosing and treatment frequency.
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Natural treatments include using topical sulfur powder, which is effective but requires careful application with full coverage of hands, hair, and mouth due to its strong smell. You can also use herbal sprays and shampoos listed in our Amazon Goat Care shopping list, which contain essential oils like neem, lavender, and tea tree to help repel and treat external parasites. Keeping the environment clean and regularly changing bedding also helps prevent infestations.
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For more on preventing and treating external parasites, check out our upcoming article on [Parasite Management for Goats].
Does my goat have bloat?/How to treat my goat for bloat.
Bloat is a life-threatening condition where gas builds up in a goat's rumen, often caused by rich feed or sudden diet changes. Signs include a swollen left side, discomfort, and labored breathing. Treatment includes anti-bloat medications, vegetable oil, gentle massage, and, in severe cases, using a stomach tube under vet guidance. Homeopathic remedies like Nux Vomica or baking soda can help prevent or manage mild cases, but severe bloat requires immediate veterinary care. Prevent bloat by avoiding sudden diet changes, limiting rich feed, and supporting rumen health.
Does my goat have a cold?/How to treat my goat for a cold/respiratory infection.
Goats can develop colds or respiratory infections, which may present as coughing, nasal discharge, labored breathing, and lethargy. Cold symptoms can be caused by viruses, bacteria, or environmental stress (such as drafts or damp conditions). In some cases, mild respiratory issues resolve on their own, but if your goat shows signs of difficulty breathing, high fever, or thick nasal discharge, a vet should be called immediately.
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Conventional treatments for respiratory infections typically include antibiotics prescribed by a vet if the infection is bacterial. Supportive care, such as keeping the goat in a dry, warm, and draft-free environment, is essential for recovery. You can also use immune-boosting supplements and ensure they have proper hydration.
How do I care for goats in the winter?
During winter, it’s essential to provide your goats with a weatherproof shelter that shields them from wind, rain, and snow. Ensure the shelter has proper drainage to avoid wet bedding and damp conditions, which can lead to health issues. Goats also require extra hay during colder months to help generate body heat, and be sure to keep water from freezing, as proper hydration is critical for their well-being.
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Read more about goat shelters and fencing in our detailed article on Shelter and Fencing Requirements for Goats.
Does my goat need heat in their barn?
Goats are generally hardy animals and can tolerate cold temperatures as long as they have access to a dry, draft-free shelter to protect them from wind, rain, and snow. Extra heat sources like heat lamps are usually not necessary and can pose a fire risk. Instead, providing deep, dry bedding and extra hay for energy helps goats stay warm naturally.
Sometimes, goat breeders will provide newborn kids with a safety heat lamp and or smaller kid warming shelter to help them keep warm during their first few, more fragile days. We only practice this when the temperature is below freezing or we have smaller kids who need a little extra warmth, and/or if kids are born in the middle of a cold night and we want to go to bed without worrying about them staying warm. A cold kid won’t eat and the first 24 hours are crucial for colostrum intake.
Read more about goat shelters and fencing in our detailed article on Shelter and Fencing Requirements for Goats.
General Goat Questions
What is a doe?/What is a female goat called?
A female goat is called a "doe". Some may refer to a female as a "nanny" but this is not the technical term used. A young doe may be referred to as a doeling or a yearling. Her first time having babies, she will be referred to as a "first freshener".
What is a wether?/What is a neutered goat called?
A neutered male goat is called a "wether". Many breeders will list all of their male kids as bucks and then designate which ones are available as wethers. Some breeds use wethers as meat goats however, Nigerian Dwarf goats are not efficient meat goats and most wethers are sold as pets or companions.
What is a buck?/What is an intact, breeding male goat called?
An intact male goat typically used for breeding is called a "buck". Some people call their intact male goats "billys" but the correct term is "buck". A baby buck may be called a "buckling".
What is a kid?/What is a baby goat called?
Baby goats are known as "kids" and is where we get the term "kidding around" as baby goats are so playful.
What does disbudded/dehorned mean?
Disbudding means to remove a goat's horns using heat to cauterize their horn area. This is usually done very young, under 2 weeks old. Dehorned means to have their horns surgically removed. There has been a trend to use clove oil or banding rings to remove horns and both of these methods are dangerous and painful.
Why are goats' horns removed?
Dairy goats are generally disbudded or polled as horns can cause severe damage to udders. Dairy goat breeds may not be shown if they have horns but they can be registered. It is a personal preference to leave or remove the horns. We have chosen to disbud all of our goats as we have found it to be a safety issue for us and the other goats to leave horns intact.
What does polled mean?
In goats, the term "polled" refers to the absence of horns. A polled goat is one that is naturally hornless, meaning it is born without horns or the genetic potential to develop them. The condition is inherited through genetics, and goats that carry the polled gene will not grow horns or "express" the polled gene. Goats can not carry the polled gene and not express it. If you find that you have a horned goat producing polled offspring, it is likely due to a polled parent being mistaken for horned and needlessly disbudded. Polled kids can develop scurs. Scurs are not true, fully developed horns; instead, they are residual, small, or misshapen growths that may appear on the head of an animal that is genetically polled.
The polled gene is sought after in Nigerian Dwarf goats as disbudding is and dangerous and unpleasant procedure. It is common for a disbudded buck to still grown scurs and require maintenance to prevent the scurs from growing into his skull. We have come to prefer our bucks to either be horned or polled as the scurs are ugly and typically result in future injuries.
What is the poll of a goat?
The poll of the goat is the top of the head. A commonly used descriptor on a goat's registration form is if they have a "white poll" which means a spot of white on the top of their head.
If I have doe (female goat), do I have to milk her?
Goats are mammals and like all mammals, only females make milk and they must give birth to make the milk. It is very easy to keep does (females) without having to milk them. There are rare exceptions to this rule. Some female goats will develop what is called a precocious udder and produce a milk like substance. This is indicative of a major health problem and should be treated by a veterinarian.
We also highly recommend all goat owners acquire a milk stand regardless of the gender or purpose of their goats. It is essential to be able to contain your goats to provide them with necessary care. Hoof trimming, medication/vitamin administration, examination, bathing, blood work all require a restrained goat and the best way to do this is what a milk stanchion. Be sure to use the stand often and teach your goats to feel safe by giving treats in the stand.
Do bucks (male goats) stink?
YES! Bucks have musk glands on the top of their head and release a strong odor during "rut", usually in the fall. The rest of the year they have a distinct smell but only if you are quite close to them. Wethered goats should not have this "buck" smell. If they do, it's possible their castration was incomplete and you should consult your vet for an exam.
Are goats noisy or loud?
Interestingly, a goat's noise level has a lot do with their personality and how they were raised. We have some lines of goats who are very vocal and some who are very quiet. Even within the louder groups, they really are only vocal when it's feeding time. The exception may be a doe (female) when she is "in heat" or "flagging".
What is the difference between Nigerian Dwarf goats and other goats?
Nigerian Dwarf goats are a distinct breed of miniature dairy goats, and they differ from other goat breeds in several aspects. Size is the most distinguishable difference as they are about half the height and weight of standard breeds. This makes them well-suited for smaller farms and urban homesteads. ND's tend to be more colorful and have more playful personalities. The closest breed to a Nigerian Dwarf is the Pygmy goats. Pygmies are a miniature meat breed and have different color patterns typically.
Nigerian Dwarf goats also have the sweetest milk of all the goat breeds as it is the highest in butterfat! They do produce less than a standard goat but they also eat a lot less making them the choice for a lot of new goat farmers. Â
Do goats have horns?
Yes, most goats are born with the potential to grow horns. Both male and female goats can develop horns unless they are disbudded (a procedure to prevent horn growth) or born polled (genetically hornless). Horns can pose risks for injuries to other goats or handlers, so many breeders choose to disbud their goats shortly after birth. Horns are common in some breeds, especially in meat or fiber goats, but many dairy goat owners prefer disbudded or polled goats for safety and ease of handling.
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Read more about goat horns in our article on Goat Horns.
Do goats climb trees?
Yes, goats are excellent climbers! While they typically stick to climbing rocks, hills, and elevated structures, some goats may even climb trees if the branches are accessible and low enough. Their natural agility and curiosity make them adventurous climbers.
In Morocco, goats are known to climb Argan trees in search of food, particularly the small, olive-like fruit that grows on these trees. These agile goats have adapted to their environment by skillfully balancing on the branches, sometimes reaching heights of up to 30 feet. Their tree-climbing behavior also plays a role in the ecosystem, as the goats help disperse Argan seeds, which are used to produce the famous Argan oil.
Do goats have udders?
Yes, female goats (does) have udders, which produce milk after they give birth. Nigerian Dwarf goats, for instance, have high butterfat content in their milk, making it popular for dairy production. Male goats (bucks) do not have udders per se, but they do have teats! Males do not produce milk unless there are underlying illnesses.
Are goats ruminants?
Yes, goats are ruminants. This means they have a four-chambered stomach, which allows them to digest fibrous plants like grass and hay through a process of fermentation. Ruminants chew cud—regurgitated food that they re-chew for better digestion.
Are goats smart?
Yes, goats are intelligent animals. They are quick learners, capable of solving simple puzzles, and often figure out how to open gates or navigate around obstacles. Their intelligence also makes them excellent escape artists!
Are goats kosher?
Yes, goats are considered kosher under Jewish dietary laws, provided they are slaughtered and prepared according to kosher guidelines. Kosher animals must have cloven hooves and chew their cud, both of which apply to goats.
Are goats good pets?
Goats can make great pets, especially breeds like the Nigerian Dwarf, which are small, friendly, and easy to handle. They are social animals, so it's recommended to keep at least two goats together. Keep in mind that goats require proper care, secure fencing, and adequate space.
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Learn more about choosing goats as pets in our article on Buying Goats: Should I Get Boys or Girls?
Are goats and sheep related?
Yes, goats and sheep are closely related and both belong to the subfamily Caprinae. However, they are different species with notable differences. Goats are generally more independent, curious, and agile, often seeking out ways to explore and climb. Sheep, on the other hand, tend to flock together more tightly and are typically more passive.
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Goats are browsers, preferring to eat shrubs and leaves, while sheep are grazers, preferring grass. Additionally, goats have beards and upright tails, while sheep do not, and sheep's wool grows continuously, requiring regular shearing, while goats have hair that sheds naturally.
Does my goat love me?
Goats are social animals that can form bonds with their owners. While they may not show affection in the same way as dogs or cats, goats express trust and comfort by following their owners, nuzzling, or seeking attention. If your goat is calm and comfortable around you, it's a sign that it feels safe and content.
What is the average lifespan of a goat?
The average lifespan of a goat is around 10 to 15 years, depending on the breed and the care they receive. Nigerian Dwarf goats tend to live on the longer end of the spectrum if they are well cared for.
How big are goats?
Goat sizes vary by breed. Nigerian Dwarf goats, for example, are small and typically weigh 60-80 lbs and stand around 17-23.5 inches tall at the shoulder. Larger breeds, such as Boer goats, can weigh over 200 lbs.
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We are most familiar with Nigerian Dwarf goats and like to compare them to the size of an average Labrador or golden retriever.
What are the breed standards/characteristics for Nigerian Dwarf goats?
Nigerian Dwarf goats are small, hardy goats with a dairy conformation. They come in a variety of colors and patterns, have upright ears, and are known for their friendly, playful personalities. They are popular for milk production due to their high butterfat content and ease of handling.
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Nigerian Dwarf Goat Size Standards:
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Height at the withers (shoulders):
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Does (females): 17 to 22.5 inches
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Bucks (males): 17 to 23.5 inches
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Weight: Nigerian Dwarf goats typically weigh around 60 to 80 pounds for both does and bucks.
What is the smallest goat breed?
The Nigerian Dwarf is one of the smallest goat breeds, standing between 17-23.5 inches at the shoulder and weighing around 60-90 lbs. Their compact size makes them ideal for small farms and homesteads. Their stature doesn’t affect their milk production, which has a high butterfat content and is ideal for dairy purposes.
What is the difference between Nigerian Dwarf goats and Pygmy goats?
Nigerian Dwarf goats are primarily bred for dairy, producing rich, high-butterfat milk, while Pygmy goats are often kept as pets or for meat. Nigerian Dwarfs are slightly taller and more refined, standing 17 to 23.5 inches tall, while Pygmy goats are shorter and stockier, around 16 to 23 inches. Both breeds are friendly and easy to keep, but Nigerian Dwarfs are the better choice for milk production, and Pygmies are known for their compact, muscular build.
​How much space do goats need?
Goats need sufficient space to roam, graze, and exercise. A general recommendation is **6 to 10 goats per acre** for Nigerian Dwarfs, depending on supplemental feeding. Overcrowding can lead to stress and health problems.
If goats are kept in a pen, it's recommended to provide at least 200-250 square feet per goat. This gives them enough room to move around, graze on hay, and socialize without becoming stressed or overcrowded. You’ll need to supplement their diet with hay, as there won’t be enough natural forage in a pen.
Learn more in our Shelter and Fencing Requirements for Goat article.
Can my goat live with my chicken?
Yes, goats can live with chickens, but you’ll need to manage the space carefully. Goats may eat the chickens' food which can be fatal and always leads to health problems even with limited exposure. Both species should have separate areas for feeding and sleeping.
Another note to consider is that chicken poo is messy and goats who share space with chickens inevitably end up laying in it and getting gross and nasty. We like our chickens to have access to the goat area to help clean up the flies and spent hay, but we don’t allow our chickens to roost in our goat pens.
Can I get a goat as a companion for my horse?
While goats can bond with horses and other livestock, this typically happens when they have no other goats to bond with, often due to stress. Goats are herd animals and thrive in the company of other goats, not just any animal on the farm. For their well-being, we do not recommend or sell goats as companions for non-goat animals. It's best to provide goats with other goats as companions to ensure they remain healthy and socially fulfilled.
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Learn more about goat companionship in our article on Buying Goats: Should I Get Boys or Girls?.
Should I get two goats?/How many goats do I need?
Goats are herd animals and thrive in the company of other goats or suitable companions. At a minimum, you need at least two goats to meet their social needs. Having another goat on the property isn't enough—they need a full-time goat companion to share their space and interact with. Goats that are isolated may experience stress and behavioral issues, so providing them with proper companionship is essential for their well-being.
The number of goats you should have depends on your goals. If you're looking for milk production, you may want a small group of does (female goats) to provide a steady supply. For pets, a pair of wethers (neutered males) can make friendly, low-maintenance companions. Always ensure you have adequate space, shelter, and resources to support multiple goats.
Learn more about choosing the right goats in our article on Buying Goats: Should I Get Boys or Girls?.
What is the best way to transport goats?
Goats are best transported in a well-ventilated, secure trailer or a large dog crate if they are small enough. Make sure they have enough room to stand and lie down, and provide non-slip bedding like grass hay.
Crates in the bed of a truck MUST be strapped down securely!
Baby goats should always be transported inside of the vehicle either in a crate or with someone holding them on their lap. Babies are small and can easily be stressed so we recommended always traveling with babies inside of the vehicle.
How does goat milk taste?
Goat milk has a creamy, slightly sweet flavor with a higher butterfat content compared to cow’s milk. The taste can vary depending on the breed, diet, and freshness. Nigerian Dwarf milk is particularly known for its sweetness. Our milk tastes like traditional half-and-half due to the high butterfat content!
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Read more about Raw Goat Milk.
Are Nigerian Dwarf good meat goats?
Nigerian Dwarf goats are typically not raised for meat production due to their small size. Meat goats like Boers or Kikos are better suited for this purpose. However, Nigerian Dwarfs are used for meat on farms where their goal is self-sufficiency and zero waste. In this case, a wether or goat that does not sell, could be processed for meat making them a dual purpose goat breed.
Are Nigerian Dwarf goats a good dairy breed?
Yes, Nigerian Dwarf goats are excellent dairy goats. They produce a good amount of milk for their size, with a high butterfat content (up to 6-10%), making the milk creamy and ideal for cheese and other dairy products.
Are Nigerian Dwarf goats friendly?
Yes, Nigerian Dwarf goats who are raised with a lot of human interaction are known for their friendly and playful personalities. They are one of the most popular goat breeds for pets and small farms because of their personalities and love for their human families. We bottle train all of our goats to ensure they have the best start with their human bond and so new families can continue that bond!
Are Nigerian Dwarf goats aggressive?
Nigerian Dwarf goats are generally not aggressive. However, like all animals, individual temperaments can vary. Bucks (intact males) may become more territorial and aggressive during breeding season, but with proper care and handling, they are typically friendly and manageable.