December 24th, 2024

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​10 Common Mistakes New Goat Owners Make

​Getting goats is exciting—they’re adorable, mischievous, and full of personality. But let’s face it: no matter how much research you do, your goats will find creative ways to teach you some hard (and hilarious) lessons. Here are ten common mistakes new goat owners make and why your goats will laugh at you for them:
1. Thinking Your Fence is Goat-Proof
Spoiler alert: it’s not. Goats are escape artists who see fences as puzzles to solve. If your fence isn’t strong, tall, and secure, your goats will be visiting your neighbor’s garden before you know it.
2. Underestimating Their Appetite for Chaos
“Goats will eat anything” isn’t entirely true, but they will nibble on things they shouldn’t—like your favorite shirt, your garden hose, or that expensive new landscaping.
3. Skipping the Hoof Trimming
Letting their hooves grow too long is like wearing shoes two sizes too small. It’s uncomfortable and can cause health problems. Plus, wrangling an uncooperative goat for a hoof trim isn’t something you want to delay.
4. Thinking One Goat is Enough
Goats are herd animals. Getting just one is like throwing a party and not inviting any guests. A lonely goat is a noisy goat—and they’ll make sure you (and your neighbors) know about it.
5. Feeding Them Like a Cow
Goats have specific dietary needs. Feeding them only grain or letting them munch on random weeds can lead to serious health issues. Research what they should (and shouldn’t) eat to keep them healthy.
6. Ignoring Their Escape Plans
If your goat has been staring at the gate latch for an hour, they’re not daydreaming. They’re plotting. Secure every latch and consider backup locks—because goats love proving you wrong.
7. Not Training Them Early
Baby goats are cute, but letting them jump on you or headbutt as kids turns into a less adorable problem when they grow up. Set boundaries early, or prepare for goat gymnastics on your back.
8. Forgetting They’re Smarter Than They Look
Goats are clever, curious, and capable of opening gates, climbing ladders, and finding the one weak spot in your setup. Never underestimate their intelligence—or their determination.
9. Not Having a Vet on Speed Dial
Goats are hardy, but they’re also experts at getting themselves into trouble. Having a goat-savvy vet you can call for advice is a lifesaver (literally).
10. Thinking You’re in Charge
​You might think you’re the boss, but your goats know better. They’ll happily remind you who’s really running the show—usually by refusing to cooperate when you’re in a hurry.
Final ThoughtsGoat ownership is a wild ride, full of laughs and lessons. You’ll make mistakes—everyone does—but your goats will forgive you (mostly). Just remember: if it’s not working out as planned, your goats are probably having the time of their lives!