Tips on How to Prepare for Buying Your First Dairy Goats
Welcome to the exciting journey of buying your first dairy goats! This guide is designed to help you navigate the process, from choosing the right breed to preparing your space. Whether you’re dreaming of fresh goat’s milk or simply want some adorable farm companions, getting your first goats is a big step. This article discusses all of my tips, in detail, on how to prepare for buying your first dairy goats.
Understanding Dairy Goats
Dairy goats are a fascinating and productive breed of livestock, known for their ability to produce high-quality milk. Unlike their meat or fiber counterparts, dairy goat breeds are bred specifically for milk production, with breeds like Nubian, Saanen, LaMancha, Alpine and Nigerian Dwarf goats being among the most popular. Each breed has unique characteristics in terms of milk yield, butterfat content, and temperament. Dairy goats are smaller and more personable than dairy cows, making them ideal for small-scale farms and homesteads. They require less space and consume less feed compared to cows, yet can produce a significant amount of milk relative to their size.
Diet
Their diet plays a crucial role in the quality and quantity of the milk produced. A balanced diet consisting of forage, grains, and minerals is essential for the health and productivity of dairy breeds. Goats are also known for their browsing nature, preferring to eat leaves, twigs, and shrubs, which adds to the distinctive flavor of their milk.
Disposition
Moreover, dairy goats are social animals with a friendly disposition, often forming strong bonds with their human caretakers. They require daily interaction, proper shelter, and routine veterinary care to maintain their health and well-being. Understanding the needs and characteristics of dairy goats is vital for anyone interested in raising them, whether for commercial purposes or as a part of a sustainable lifestyle. This knowledge ensures the well-being of the goats and the quality of the milk they produce, providing a rewarding experience for both the animals and their keepers.
Choosing the Right Breed
Selecting the appropriate breed of dairy goat is a critical decision for any aspiring or experienced goat keeper, as it influences milk production, farm dynamics, and overall satisfaction. I go into more detail on the different dairy goat breeds HERE.
Key factors to consider include:
- milk yield
- butterfat content
- climate adaptability
- temperament
Milk Yield/ Butterfat Content
Popular breeds like the Nubian offer rich, high butterfat milk, ideal for cheese-making, while the Saanen, known as the “Holstein of the goat world,” produces abundant, lower-fat milk. For those in colder climates, the robust Alpine is a great choice, adapting well to varying conditions and maintaining steady milk production. LaManchas, recognizable by their tiny ears, are cherished for their calm demeanor and consistent milk yield.
Goat Size
The size and management of the herd are also important considerations. Breeds like the Nigerian Dwarf, smaller in size, are perfect for hobby farms or those with limited space, still offering high-quality milk with higher butterfat. On the other hand, larger breeds like the Toggenburg might be more suitable for commercial dairy operations due to their higher milk output.
Feeding Requirements
It’s also essential to consider the breed’s feeding requirements and health needs. Some breeds may be more susceptible to certain diseases or require more intensive care, impacting the overall cost and effort of maintenance. Additionally, the availability of specific breeds and their genetics in your region can influence your choice. Engaging with local dairy goat associations or experienced breeders can provide valuable insights into the best fit for your specific goals, whether it’s for self-sufficient living, commercial dairy production, or simply as a family pet. The right breed not only aligns with your objectives but also contributes to the health and sustainability of your goat farming endeavor.
Setting Goals
When selecting a breed of goat, consider your goals: Are you looking for high milk production, or do you prefer a smaller, manageable breed like miniature goat breeds? Do you want registered or unregistered goats? Research through the American Dairy Goat Association can be invaluable in making this decision. Remember, the right goat breed for you might be different from what works for someone else.
Finding a Reputable Breeder
Locating a Breeder
Locating a reputable dairy goat breeder is crucial for acquiring healthy, well-bred animals that can meet your dairy production goals. A key indicator of a reputable breeder is their commitment to the health and welfare of their goats. This includes adherence to proper breeding practices, regular veterinary care, and providing a clean, nurturing environment. To start your search, consider joining local or national dairy goat associations, as these often have directories of registered breeders and can be a rich source of referrals. Attending goat shows, agricultural fairs, and dairy goat seminars can also provide opportunities to meet and evaluate breeders in person.
Visiting Other Farms
When visiting a breeder, observe the overall condition of the herd. Healthy goats should be alert, active, and well-nourished with good coat condition. The first thing I ask the breeder about is their health testing practices (such as testing for CAE, CL, and Johnes disease), and the genetic lineage of their goats. An established breeder should be transparent about the health history of their herd and provide records of vaccinations and any veterinary interventions.
Additionally, assess the breeder’s knowledge and willingness to offer post-purchase support. A good breeder will be interested in the goals you have for your dairy goats and can offer guidance on care, feeding, and milking. They should also be willing to answer your questions, even after the sale is completed.
Breeder’s Reputation
Another aspect to consider is the breeder’s reputation in the dairy goat community. Look for reviews or testimonials from other buyers, and don’t hesitate to ask for references. Lastly, ensure that the breeder provides clear sales agreements and health guarantees for their goats. Choosing a breeder who prioritizes the health, genetics, and welfare of their goats is not only an ethical decision but also a practical one, as it greatly influences the success and enjoyment of your dairy goat endeavor.
Purchasing your first goat from a reputable breeder over a sale barn is crucial. A good breeder will provide healthy, well-cared-for animals and can offer invaluable advice for new goat keepers. Explore Facebook groups dedicated to goat keeping, and don’t hesitate to ask for recommendations.
Preparing Your Space
Shelter
Creating an appropriate living space for dairy goats is essential for their health, safety, and productivity. Initially, consider the type of shelter you’d like to build. Goats require a dry, draft-free environment that protects them from extreme weather conditions. The shelter should be spacious enough to allow each goat ample room to move, rest, and feed comfortably. The rule of thumb is about 15-20 square feet per goat inside the shelter. Good ventilation is crucial to prevent respiratory issues, but avoid direct drafts. The flooring should be easy to clean; many opt for natural earth or straw-covered floors, which provide comfort and warmth.
Inside the Shelter
Inside the shelter, provide a designated area for feeding and water, ensuring that food and water sources are clean, easily accessible, and protected from contamination. Hay racks and feeders should be positioned to prevent feed wastage and contamination.
Milking Parlor
A separate, clean, and quiet area should be established for milking. This area should be easy to clean and disinfect, ensuring the hygiene of the milking process.
Fencing
Fencing is another critical aspect. Sturdy fencing not only keeps goats safe from predators but also prevents them from wandering off, as goats are naturally curious and known to escape if given the opportunity. The fence should be tall enough to prevent jumping and without gaps to avoid entanglement or injury. I would suggest goat fencing or electric fencing.
Foraging
Additionally, outdoor space for exercise and grazing is important. Goats are active animals and benefit from space to roam and browse. If natural pasture isn’t available, providing an outdoor enclosure with enrichment, such as rocks or logs for climbing, can promote physical activity and mental well-being.
Maintenance
Regular maintenance of the space is crucial. This includes daily cleaning of feeding and water areas, regular removal of soiled bedding, and periodic checks of the fence and shelter for any damages or hazards. By carefully preparing and maintaining a space for dairy goats, you ensure their well-being, which is directly reflected in their health, behavior, and milk production.
Nutrition and Health Care
Diet
Effective nutrition and health care are paramount for the well-being and productivity of dairy goats. Nutritionally, goats require a balanced diet that includes forage, grains, and a mineral supplement. Forage, such as hay or pasture, should be the primary component, providing the necessary fiber for proper digestion and rumen function. Quality forage helps maintain healthy weight and milk production. Additionally, a measured amount of grain feed can supplement the goats’ diet, especially during lactation when their energy needs are higher. Mineral supplements, particularly those containing calcium, phosphorus, and trace elements like selenium and copper, are crucial for goats’ overall health, particularly in regions where these nutrients are deficient in the soil.
Fresh/ Clean Water
Consistent access to clean, fresh water is also essential. Goats need an ample supply of water for digestion and milk production, and their water intake often increases when they are lactating.
Health Care
Health care for dairy goats includes regular deworming and vaccinations to protect against common diseases like tetanus, enterotoxemia, and pneumonia. Establishing a relationship with a veterinarian who is experienced with goats is important for regular health check-ups, emergency care, and advice on specific health management practices tailored to your herd.
Hoof Care
Hoof care is an often-overlooked aspect of goat health. Regular hoof trimming every 4-6 weeks helps prevent foot problems, which can be common in goats. This is my most dreaded chore. Please watch videos on proper hoof care prior to purchasing goats.
Minerals
It’s also essential to provide your goats with unrestricted access to a carefully selected range of loose minerals. Ideally, these minerals should include ammonium chloride, a crucial component that aids in preventing urinary calculi, a common health issue in goats. Urinary calculi, or bladder stones, can be particularly problematic in male goats and can lead to serious health complications. Ammonium chloride helps by acidifying the urine, thereby reducing the risk of stone formation. Offering these minerals as a free choice allows the goats to self-regulate and consume them as per their individual needs, ensuring they receive the right balance of nutrients for optimal health. Additionally, monitoring and adjusting the mineral intake based on their health, age, and stage of lactation is important for maintaining their overall well-being.
Environment
In addition to these physical health aspects, it’s important to monitor the goats’ environment and behavior for signs of stress or illness. Good housing conditions, proper feed, clean water, and a stress-free environment contribute significantly to their overall health. Regular observation and prompt attention to any changes in behavior, appetite, or appearance are crucial for early detection of health issues.
Health Records
Lastly, maintaining good records of health interventions, feed changes, and milk production can help in managing the herd effectively and noticing any patterns or issues that may arise. By focusing on both nutrition and comprehensive health care, you ensure not only the longevity and productivity of your dairy goats but also their quality of life.
The Social Nature of Goats
Herd Animals
Goats are inherently social creatures, displaying a level of social interaction and bonding that is essential for their overall well-being. In their natural setting, goats are a herd animal and establish complex social hierarchies. This herd mentality is crucial to their sense of security and affects their behavior and health. Goats communicate with each other through a range of vocalizations, body postures, and even facial expressions, indicating their social nature and intelligence.
Companionship
Isolation can be highly stressful for goats. They thrive on companionship, and it’s often recommended to keep them in pairs or groups of a couple of goats. Even in a domestic setting, their need for social interaction remains. They form strong bonds not only with fellow goats but also with their human caretakers, exhibiting behaviors such as following people around, initiating contact, and showing signs of distress when separated.
Playfulness
Their playfulness is another aspect of their social behavior. Goats of all ages engage in playful activities, including jumping, head-butting, and running. Providing an environment that stimulates their play instincts, such as climbing structures or open space for running, is vital for their mental and physical health.
Understanding Their Social Needs
Understanding and catering to the social needs of goats is fundamental in any goat-keeping practice. This includes providing adequate space for social interactions, companionship, and environmental enrichment. Failing to address their social nature can lead to behavioral problems and stress-related health issues.
Additionally, goats can establish a social hierarchy within their group, and it’s important for keepers to be mindful of this when introducing new goats into an existing herd. Ensuring a gradual and supervised introduction can help in maintaining harmony within the group.
In summary, the social nature of goats is a key aspect of their behavior and welfare. Acknowledging and accommodating their need for social interaction and environmental stimulation is critical for keeping them happy, healthy, and well-adjusted.
Legal and Financial Considerations
Zoning Laws
Owning dairy goats involves navigating a range of legal and financial considerations that are crucial for responsible and sustainable management. Legally, potential goat owners must first acquaint themselves with local zoning laws and regulations regarding livestock.
Many areas have specific rules about keeping farm animals, including restrictions based on the size of the property, the number of animals allowed, and their proximity to neighboring dwellings. Acquiring the necessary permits or licenses is often a prerequisite.
Furthermore, if the intent is to sell goat milk or cheese, additional health and safety regulations come into play, governed by both state and federal agencies. These might include licensing for dairy production, adherence to strict sanitary standards, and regular health inspections.
Initial Costs
Financially, the initial investment includes purchasing the goats, which can vary significantly in price based on breed, lineage, and productivity. Essential infrastructure, such as fencing, shelter, and milking equipment, also represents a considerable expense. Ongoing costs include feed, vet bills, vaccinations, deworming, hoof care, and labor. These expenses can be substantial and should be carefully factored into budget planning.
Creating a Business Plan
For those looking to generate income from their dairy goats, it’s important to develop a realistic business plan. This plan should account for the costs of production, potential market for the products, pricing strategies, and marketing efforts. The revenue from selling milk, cheese, or even breeding stock can help offset the costs of upkeep, but this often requires a sizeable and consistent customer base.
Insurance
Insurance is another important consideration. Liability insurance can protect the owner in case of accidents or injuries related to the goats, while property insurance can cover structures and equipment.
Records
Last thing, it’s wise to maintain detailed records of all expenditures, income, health records, and breeding activities. This not only helps in managing the financial aspects of goat ownership but is also essential for tax purposes, particularly if the goats are part of a business operation. I have an entire article dedicated to livestock record keeping HERE.
Learning and Community Engagement
Facebook groups are a good place to start. They are dedicated to dairy goat owners offer a vibrant platform for community engagement, providing a space for sharing knowledge, experiences, and support. These online communities bring together individuals from diverse backgrounds, ranging from seasoned goat farmers to novices, all united by their interest in dairy goats.
Members of these groups frequently exchange advice on goat care, feeding, breeding, milking, and health management. New goat owners can benefit immensely from the collective wisdom of experienced members, receiving guidance on best practices and common pitfalls to avoid.
These groups also serve as a resource for staying updated on the latest developments in goat farming, be it advancements in veterinary care, sustainable farming practices, or innovative dairy production techniques. The sharing of resources, such as veterinary contacts, equipment recommendations, and nutritional guides, is a common feature, greatly benefiting members who might otherwise struggle to find this information.
Networking
Additionally, Facebook groups provide a platform for networking. Members can connect with local breeders, discover regional dairy goat associations, and learn about upcoming events like shows, fairs, and educational seminars. Such connections can lead to meaningful collaborations, mentorship opportunities, and even business partnerships.
Beyond the practical aspects, these groups often foster a sense of community and belonging for a lot of people. Members celebrate each other’s successes, whether it’s a successful kidding season, a bumper milk yield, or the creation of a new cheese recipe. They also offer support during challenges, such as dealing with illnesses or navigating regulatory hurdles. The emotional support and camaraderie found in these groups can be especially valuable, providing a sense of solidarity in what can sometimes be a demanding undertaking.
For those interested in advocacy and education, these groups can also be a platform for promoting the benefits of dairy goats and goat milk products, raising public awareness about sustainable agriculture, and even influencing policy related to small-scale farming.
Joining communities, whether online like a Facebook group or through the American Dairy Goat Association, can provide support and advice. Consider following YouTube channels dedicated to goat keeping for practical tips and insights.
Practical Tips Before Your Goat Purchase
Know Your Breed
Before diving into the rewarding world of dairy goat ownership, it’s crucial to consider several practical tips to ensure a smooth and successful journey. Firstly, thoroughly research the different breeds of dairy goats to find one that aligns with your goals, whether it’s high milk production, butterfat content, or adaptability to your climate. Understanding the specific needs and characteristics of breeds like Nubian, Saanen, or Alpine can help in making an informed decision.
Assess Your Space
Next, assess your available space and ensure you have adequate shelter and fencing. Goats require a safe, clean, and dry environment, with enough room to move, rest, and engage in natural behaviors. Strong, secure fencing is also essential to keep your goats safe and contained.
Understanding Goat Health and Nutrition
Gaining a basic understanding of goat health and nutrition is imperative. Familiarize yourself with the dietary requirements of goats, common health issues, and basic care such as hoof trimming and deworming. This knowledge is vital for maintaining the health and well-being of your herd.
Budgeting
Budgeting is another critical aspect. Consider not only the initial cost of purchasing the goats but also ongoing expenses such as feed, veterinary care, and housing maintenance. Having a clear financial plan can help in managing costs effectively.
Connect with Other Goat Owners
Connect with the local goat farming community or join online forums and social media groups. These communities can provide invaluable advice, support, and resources for both new and experienced goat owners. They can also be a good source for finding reputable breeders.
Know Your Breeder
When choosing a breeder, look for someone who is transparent about their breeding practices and the health of their herd. A reputable breeder should provide health records and be willing to answer all your questions about their goats.
Long Term Commitment
Lastly, consider your long-term commitment. Owning dairy goats is a significant responsibility that requires time, effort, and dedication. Think about your lifestyle and whether you can commit to the daily needs of your goats, including feeding, milking, and regular health checks.
By following these practical tips, you can lay a strong foundation for a fulfilling and enjoyable experience with dairy goats, whether as a hobby or a more serious agricultural endeavor.
Prepare thoroughly before your goats arrive. Create a checklist, including items like feed, shelter, and fencing. Understand the commitment you’re making – goats require time, effort, and a lot of work.
After Purchase: The Next Steps
Bringing Your Goats Home
Bringing your dairy goats home marks the beginning of an exciting and crucial phase in goat ownership. Initially, it’s important to allow your goats ample time to acclimate to their new surroundings. The transition to a new environment can be stressful for goats, so minimize any additional stressors during this period. This means keeping their environment calm and quiet, allowing them to explore and become familiar with their new home at their own pace.
Establishing a Routine
Establishing a consistent routine is key for your goats’ well-being. Set regular times for feeding, cleaning their living space, and providing fresh water. Consistency helps in reducing their stress and promotes a sense of security. When it comes to feeding, ensure that you are providing a diet that meets their nutritional needs, which includes a proper balance of forage, grains, and minerals. Slowly introduce any new feed to avoid digestive upset.
Cleaning
Cleaning is equally important. Regular cleaning of their living space prevents the build-up of harmful bacteria and parasites. This involves daily removal of soiled bedding, cleaning of feeding and watering equipment, and ensuring that the shelter remains dry and well-ventilated.
Socializing
Socializing with your goats is also a crucial aspect of their acclimation. Spend time with them daily to build trust and familiarity. This can be done through gentle handling, grooming, or simply being present in their space. Goats are social animals and will benefit greatly from positive human interaction.
Monitoring
Monitoring their behavior and health as they settle into their new home is essential. Look for signs of good health such as active, alert behavior, a healthy appetite, and normal rumination (chewing cud). Be vigilant for any signs of illness or distress, such as lethargy, refusal to eat, abnormal discharge, or changes in stool consistency. It’s also important to establish a relationship with a local veterinarian experienced in goat care for regular health checks and emergencies.
Finally, integrate your new goats into any existing herd gradually. Introducing new goats can disrupt the established social hierarchy, leading to stress and aggression. Supervised, gradual introduction helps in easing this transition and fostering harmonious relationships within the herd.
By attentively managing these initial steps after purchase, you set the stage for a smooth transition for your goats, laying the groundwork for a successful and enjoyable goat-keeping experience.
Conclusion
Embarking on the journey of goat ownership is both exciting and challenging. With proper preparation and a commitment to learning, you’ll find that keeping goats is a rewarding experience. Remember, the best advice often comes from experience, so don’t hesitate to reach out to the goat-keeping community for support. I am by no means an expert in the goat world, but after owning Nubians for nearly 8 years, I am starting to get the hang of it. Post any questions in the comments and I will do my best to answer or point you in the correct direction.
