Welcome to the world of backyard goats! Raising animals on a suburban homestead can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience, and raising goats is no different. Not only can these charming creatures provide you with milk, cheese, and other dairy products, but they also offer companionship and contribute to a sustainable lifestyle.
Let’s explore the legalities of raising goats in your backyard, the best breeds for suburban living, the benefits of keeping goats, and the practical aspects of raising and caring for them.
Is it Legal to Raise Goats in Your Backyard?
Before diving into the world of raising backyard goats, it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with your local ordinances. Regulations regarding livestock — even small animals like goats and backyard chickens — can vary from city to city.
Some areas may have restrictions on the number of goats you can keep, for example, while others might require specific permits or exclude certain breeds.
Check with your local government or animal control agency to ensure that raising goats is permitted in your neighborhood.
Which Breeds of Goats are Best for Suburban Backyards?
When it comes to selecting a breed for your suburban homestead, certain characteristics make some goats better suited for backyard living. Consider breeds that are known for their smaller size, docile temperament, and adaptability to various climates.
Nigerian Dwarf goats and Pygmy goats are popular choices due to their petite size and friendly nature. Miniature breeds such as the Mini Nubian or Mini LaMancha can also be excellent options.
Research different goat breeds and consult local goat owners to find the perfect fit for your backyard.
Benefits of Backyard Goats
Owning goats as a suburban homesteader offers a range of benefits beyond the adorable appearance of these delightful animals. Let’s explore some of the advantages of raising backyard goats.
Milk, Cheese, and Other Dairy Products
One of the primary reasons people raise goats is for their fresh, nutritious milk. Goat milk is known for its creamy texture and unique flavor. It’s also a great alternative for those who are lactose intolerant.
With the right equipment and knowledge, you can turn that milk into delicious homemade cheese, yogurt, and other dairy products right in your own kitchen.
Goat Hair / Fiber
Some goat breeds have luscious coats that can be harvested for fiber. Angora goats, for example, produce high-quality mohair that can be spun into luxurious yarn. By raising these goats, you can indulge in the rewarding hobby of fiber arts and create beautiful garments or crafts from their soft, natural fiber.
You may even be able to supplement your homestead’s income by selling the fiber or crafts created with goat hair!
Meat
While it may not be for everyone, raising goats for meat is another option. Goat meat, commonly referred to as chevon, is lean and flavorful, making it a popular choice in many cuisines worldwide. If you prefer to have control over the quality and source of your meat, raising goats for meat can be a sustainable and ethical choice.
Pets and Companionship
Beyond their practical benefits, goats can be wonderful pets and companions. They have distinct personalities, are social animals, and can form strong bonds with their human caretakers. Many goat owners find joy in spending time with their goats, whether it’s cuddling, playing, or simply observing their quirky behavior.
How to Raise Backyard Goats
How Much Space Do Goats Need?
Although goats are adaptable creatures, they still require sufficient space to roam and graze. As a general rule of thumb, each adult goat needs a minimum of 200 square feet of space to thrive. This estimate includes both grazing and shelter areas.
However, more space is always better, as goats love to explore and climb. Make sure your backyard can accommodate the number of goats you plan to raise comfortably.
Preparing Your Backyard for Goats
Before bringing goats into your backyard, it’s essential to ensure their safety and well-being. For example, you’ll need to remove any toxic or hazardous plants or shrubs from the area where they’ll roam. Goats have a knack for finding and devouring plants that are harmful to them.
You’ll also need to secure your yard with sturdy fencing to prevent escape and keep out potential predators. Also, be sure to install proper equipment, such as feeding troughs, water containers, and trimming stands, and create a designated area for milking and trimming if you’ll be harvesting goat milk or fiber.
Housing Your Backyard Goats / Goat Shelter
Goats need a cozy shelter to protect them from extreme weather conditions. Construct a sturdy and well-ventilated shelter that provides ample space for each goat. The shelter should have clean bedding and be secure from predators.
It’s important to consider proper ventilation to prevent the buildup of moisture and ammonia, which can cause respiratory issues for your backyard goats.
Keeping Your Goats Safe From Predators
Predators can pose a threat to your goats, even in a suburban environment. Install predator-proof fencing, such as woven wire or electric fencing, to deter potential threats. Additionally, consider using motion-sensor lights or other deterrents to discourage nighttime predators. Regularly inspect the fencing and secure any weak areas to keep your goats safe.
Feeding and Watering Your Goats
Goats are natural foragers and will nibble on various plants and shrubs in your yard. However, they also require a balanced diet to thrive. Provide them with good quality hay, fresh water, and formulated goat feed to meet their nutritional needs.
You can also supplement their diet with occasional treats, such as commercial goat treats or fruits and vegetables from your garden, but be cautious not to overfeed them.
Keeping Goats Occupied
Goats are curious and intelligent animals that benefit from mental stimulation and physical activity. Provide them with goat toys, platforms, and climbing structures to keep them entertained and active.
Old tires, sturdy branches, and wooden platforms are simple and inexpensive options that goats enjoy exploring and climbing on.
Keeping Goats Healthy
Regular medical care and monitoring are essential to keep your goats healthy. You’ll need to learn how to trim their hooves properly to prevent overgrowth and infections. Another necessary task is to brush their coats regularly, especially during shedding seasons. This removes loose hair and prevents matting.
Also, make sure to familiarize yourself with common goat illnesses and consult a veterinarian experienced in goat care if you notice any signs of illness or distress.
Ready to Jump Into Raising Backyard Goats?
Raising goats on a suburban homestead can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience. Whether you’re interested in their dairy products, fiber, meat, or simply their companionship, goats offer a range of benefits. By adhering to local regulations, providing adequate space and shelter, and ensuring their well-being, you can enjoy the joys of backyard goat keeping.
FAQs: Backyard Goats
Can I raise goats in my suburban backyard if I live in a residential area?
The permissibility of raising goats in a suburban backyard varies depending on local ordinances. You’ll have to check with your city or county government to understand the specific regulations that apply to your area.
Do I need a permit to raise goats in my backyard?
Permit requirements can vary depending on your location. Check with your local government or animal control agency to determine if you need a permit to raise goats in your backyard.
How often do goats need to be milked?
The frequency of milking goats depends on several factors, including their breed and lactation cycle. In general, goats are typically milked twice a day, approximately 12 hours apart. However, consult with experienced goat owners or a local dairy goat specialist to determine the best milking schedule for your specific goats.
Are goats noisy? Will my neighbors be bothered by their presence?
Goats can vocalize, especially when they’re in heat or distressed. However, compared to other livestock, their noise level is relatively low. Properly cared for and provided with enough space, shelter, and attention, goats are unlikely to cause significant disturbances to your neighbors. However, it’s always a good idea to communicate with your neighbors and address any concerns they may have.