The 10 Best Goat Breeds for Beginners

Raising goats is a rewarding experience, whether you’re looking for fresh milk, quality meat, or a companion for your homestead. With their playful personalities and diverse purposes, goats can bring life and productivity to your farm.

But where should you start? With so many breeds to choose from, it’s important to find one that matches your needs. By understanding what each breed offers, you can select goats that fit your farm.

What to Consider When Selecting Goat Breeds

Getting started with goats is exciting, but choosing the right breed is key to a smooth start. Here are some important factors to think about when selecting your first goats.

Purpose

Why do you want goats? This is an essential question since goats serve many purposes.

• Do you want to have a steady supply of goat milk?
• Are you looking for goats for meat production?
• Do you want goats for companion animals?
• Or are you looking for help clearing weeds and briars?

Your goals will inform your goat breed choices.

Size

The size of the goat plays a big role in how manageable they are.

• Small breeds are easier to handle and don’t need as much food.
• Large breeds are sturdy and withstand the elements better, but they require stronger fencing and more space.

Temperament

Goats are known for their personalities, and a calm, friendly temperament makes a world of difference.

Certain breeds are docile and affectionate, which makes them easier to handle and great around children. A high-strung or overly independent goat is more challenging for someone just starting out.

Local Climate

Goats are adaptable, but different breeds thrive in various climates. Hardy breeds do well in hot climates, while others prefer cooler, temperate conditions.

Understanding how local weather impacts goat care will help you raise a healthy and happy herd.

Farm Setup

Your farm’s setup has to meet the specific needs of the goats you plan to raise.

• Shelter: You need shaded areas for hot summers and sturdy, insulated shelters for winters and to protect them from predators.
• Fencing: Goats are notorious escape artists, so secure fencing is crucial. Electric fencing or woven wire at least 4–5 feet high works well for most breeds.
• Space*: Plan for at least 200–300 square feet of outdoor space per goat for exercise and grazing, with at least 15–20 square feet of indoor shelter per goat. (*This is an average, some breeds may need more or less room depending on their size.)
• Companionship: Goats are social animals and thrive in the company of other goats. A single goat will quickly become lonely and stressed, which can lead to behavioral and health issues. Always plan to keep at least two goats together to meet their social needs.
• Livestock guardians: Depending on your setup and location, you may also need a livestock guardian. Animals like guardian dogs, donkeys, or llamas can provide an additional layer of protection against predators such as coyotes or foxes.

Feeding

The size, purpose, and setup of your farm will impact your goats’ feeding needs.

• Breed size: Smaller breeds require less feed, making them budget-friendly options for beginners. Larger breeds consume more and may need additional supplementation to meet their nutritional needs.
• Grazing setup: If you have ample grazing areas with high-quality pasture, goats can meet a significant portion of their dietary needs by foraging on grass, shrubs, and weeds.
• Supplementation: For setups with limited grazing, you’ll need to supplement with alfalfa, hay, or grain depending on the goats’ purpose:
  • Dairy goats: Lactating goats often require additional alfalfa or grain to sustain milk production.
  • Meat goats: Meat breeds may benefit from hay or supplemental feed to support growth.
  • Companion goats: Non-productive goats typically thrive on good-quality hay and minerals.

Breeding

If you plan to breed goats, consider the resources and time required for kidding and raising young. Some breeds are known for easier birthing, which is ideal for beginners.

• Birthing area: Make sure you have a safe, clean area for does to give birth. Provide adequate space for does to bond with their kids and, if necessary, separate them from other goats for safety and stress reduction.
• Buck housing: If you include a buck in your breeding program, you will need a separate pen for him. Bucks should be housed away from does except during the breeding season to avoid unplanned pregnancies and to maintain herd harmony. The pen should be secure and sturdy. Bucks are known to challenge fencing, especially when they sense does in heat.

Veterinary Requirements

Regular health care is a cornerstone of goat ownership.

• Find a veterinarian: Check that you have access to a vet experienced with goats in your area.
• Preventative care: Stay on top of vaccinations, deworming, and hoof trimming.
• Emergency plan: Develop a plan for unexpected health issues, including access to first-aid supplies.

Availability

Some breeds are more affordable and easier to find than others. Local availability matters because transporting goats adds significant costs. Popular beginner breeds are usually easy to find at reasonable prices.

Sourcing Goats from Reputable Breeders

Buying goats from a reputable breeder is one of the most important steps in starting your herd. A trustworthy breeder will:

• Provide healthy goats with proper documentation of their health history and lineage.
• Be transparent about vaccinations, deworming schedules, and care practices.
• Offer advice and answer any questions you have about caring for the breed.

Avoid sellers who lack proper records, seem unwilling to share information, or whose goats appear unhealthy. Starting with well-cared-for animals minimizes the risk of illness and provides a smoother transition to your farm.

Best Goat Breeds for Beginners

Below, we’ve broken down beginner-friendly goat breeds based on purpose.

Goat Breeds for Companionship

Pygmy

These playful, easy-to-handle goats are perfect for first-time goat owners. Known for their hardy nature and adaptability, Pygmy goats are low-maintenance and well-suited for various climates and setups.

• Size: Pygmy goats are small, standing 16–23 inches tall and weighing around 50–75 pounds as adults. Their compact size makes them easy to handle and ideal for small spaces.
• Temperament: They are friendly, curious, and sociable, making them excellent companions for families, especially those with children.
• Climate: Pygmy goats adapt well to various climates, from temperate regions to areas with more extreme weather (as long as they have proper shelter).
• Setup: They require less space and are less likely to jump over fences but need more climbing enrichment in their environment. They adapt exceptionally well to small-scale farming or backyard homesteads.
• Feeding: Pygmy goats are efficient grazers and require relatively small amounts of feed due to their size.
• Breeding: Pygmies are relatively easy to breed and care for during kidding. They typically give birth to 1–3 kids.
• Availability: Pygmy goats are widely available and popular, making it easy to find reputable breeders.

Nigerian Dwarf

These compact, friendly goats are a favorite among first-time goat owners and small-scale farmers. Known for their prolific milk production and gentle temperament, Nigerian Dwarf goats are easy to handle and adapt well to various setups.

• Size: Nigerian Dwarfs are small goats, standing 16–21 inches tall and weighing 60–80 pounds as adults. Their petite size makes them ideal for small spaces and easy to manage.
• Temperament: These goats are friendly, calm, and sociable, making them excellent family companions. They are also known for their playful and curious nature.
• Climate: Nigerian Dwarfs adapt well to a variety of climates but are less tolerant of extreme cold than larger breeds. Insulated shelters or heat lamps will be needed in colder climates.
• Setup: Nigerian Dwarfs are clever and more likely to test fence boundaries. Electric fencing or woven wire with smaller openings (to prevent squeezing through) works best. Like Pygmy goats, they enjoy climbing, so add ramps or logs to their area. Include a scratching post or textured surface for further enrichment.
• Feeding: Nigerian Dwarfs are efficient foragers who prefer browsing on shrubs, weeds, and plants over grazing on open grass. Due to their size, they require less feed than larger breeds.
• Breeding: Nigerian Dwarfs typically give birth to 2–4 kids per kidding. Their small size and generally easy birthing can make them a good choice for beginners interested in breeding.
• Availability: Nigerian Dwarfs are widely available, making them accessible for beginners.

Myotonic (Fainting Goat)

Known for their unique “fainting” trait, Myotonic goats are a calm and manageable breed well-suited for small-scale farms. They are dual-purpose goats valued for meat production and companionship.

• Size: Myotonic goats are medium-sized, standing 17–25 inches tall and weighing 60–175 pounds, depending on the specific strain (miniature or standard).
• Temperament: These goats are calm, friendly, and less likely to jump or escape than other breeds. Their relaxed demeanor makes them ideal for families and beginner goat owners.
• Climate: Myotonic goats adapt well to most climates but require additional protection in extreme heat or cold. Their muscular build makes them slightly less heat-tolerant than other breeds, so make sure shaded areas are available during hot weather.
• Setup: Their smaller activity radius makes them a good fit for small-scale setups. They’re not aggressive climbers or jumpers, so standard fencing is generally okay.
• Feeding: These goats are efficient foragers and do well on hay, pasture browsing, and goat-specific mineral supplements.
• Breeding: Myotonic goats are easy to breed, often producing 1–2 kids per kidding. They have a strong maternal instinct, and their calm nature makes kidding stress-free for beginners.
• Availability: Myotonic goats are readily available from reputable breeders, though their unique trait makes them slightly less common than other breeds.

Goat Breeds for Dairy

Nubian

Nubian goats are beloved for their gentle nature and rich, creamy milk with high butterfat content. They are popular for families and beginners looking to produce high-quality dairy products.

• Size: Nubians are large goats, standing 30–35 inches tall and weighing 130–175 pounds. Their size makes them sturdier but require more space and stronger fencing.
• Temperament: Affectionate and sociable, Nubians are known for their friendly and vocal personalities. They bond well with their owners, making them a joy to have on the farm.
• Climate: Due to their Middle Eastern heritage, Nubians thrive in warmer climates and will require proper shelter in colder regions. Insulated housing is recommended for extreme cold.
• Setup: These larger goats need at least 250–350 square feet per goat of outdoor space and 20–25 square feet per goat indoors. Also, use strong fencing at least 5 feet tall since they may attempt to climb or push against weak barriers.
• Feeding: Nubians require more feed than smaller breeds. Their size and milk production require additional grain or alfalfa during lactation.
• Breeding: Nubians typically give birth to 1–3 kids per kidding. Due to their size, they may require assistance during kidding in rare cases.
• Availability: Nubians are widely available. Due to their size and milk production capacity, they are slightly pricier than smaller breeds.

Alpine

Alpines are hardy, adaptable goats known for their high milk production and mild-tasting milk. They are reliable for beginners seeking a productive and low-maintenance dairy goat.

• Size: Alpines are medium to large goats, standing 30–32 inches tall and weighing 125–170 pounds.
• Temperament: Calm, friendly, and independent, Alpine goats are easy to handle and integrate well into herds.
• Climate: Alpines are highly adaptable and thrive in cold and warm climates, making them one of the most versatile dairy breeds.
• Setup: Provide 250–300 square feet per goat outdoors and 20–25 square feet per goat indoors. Alpines are agile and energetic, requiring strong fencing at least 4–5 feet tall.
• Feeding: Alpines need a balanced diet of hay, pasture grazing, and goat-specific minerals. During lactation, they require additional grain or supplements to sustain high milk production.
• Breeding: They are reliable breeders, often producing 2–3 kids per kidding. Kidding is typically straightforward, making them beginner-friendly.
• Availability: Alpines are widely available since they’re popular among dairy farmers.

Saanen

Saanens are gentle giants of the goat world, known for their calm demeanor and exceptional milk production. They are ideal for farms that need a consistent supply of milk.

• Size: Saanens are large goats, standing 30–32 inches tall and weighing 135–170 pounds. Their size requires more space and feed than smaller breeds.
• Temperament: Docile, quiet, and friendly, Saanens are easy to handle and excellent for families and beginners.
• Climate: Saanens prefer cooler climates and struggle in extreme heat. In warm regions, they require plenty of shade and water to stay comfortable.
• Setup: Their larger size necessitates ample room. Provide 250–350 square feet per goat outdoors and 20–25 square feet per goat indoors. Strong, tall fencing (at least 5 feet) should be used to contain these large goats.
• Feeding: Saanens need hay, pasture, and goat-specific minerals. Lactating requires additional grain or alfalfa to support their milk production.
• Breeding: Saanens typically give birth to 2–3 kids per kidding. Their calm nature makes kidding stress-free for beginners.
• Availability: Saanens are widely available dairy goats.

LaMancha

LaManchas are hardy and adaptable goats, known for their distinctive “elf” or “gopher” ears and rich, high-quality milk. They are great for farmers looking for a unique and productive dairy breed.

• Size: LaManchas are medium-sized goats, standing 28–31 inches tall and weighing 130–160 pounds.
• Temperament: Friendly, calm, and sociable, they are easy to manage and integrate well with other goats.
• Climate: LaManchas adapt to a wide range of climates, from hot to cold, as long as proper shelter is provided.
• Setup: LaMancha goats are curious and energetic, so fencing must be at least 4–5 feet tall to prevent escapes.
• Feeding: A diet of hay, pasture, and goat-specific minerals sustains their energy and milk production. During lactation, additional grain or alfalfa is needed to maintain production levels.
• Breeding: LaManchas typically give birth to 1–3 kids per kidding. Their easygoing temperament makes them ideal for breeding beginners.
• Availability: LaManchas are readily available since their unique appearance and high-quality milk make them a favorite among dairy farmers.

Goat Breeds for Meat

Boer

Boer goats are the gold standard for meat production due to their rapid growth, large size, and high yield. They are a popular choice for farmers looking for efficient and robust meat goats.

• Size: Boers are large goats, with does weighing 190–230 pounds and bucks often exceeding 300 pounds. Their substantial size makes them highly productive for meat.
• Temperament: Docile and easygoing, Boers are friendly and adapt well to human interaction, making them easy to manage despite their size.
• Climate: Originally from South Africa, Boers thrive in warm climates but can adapt to cooler regions with proper shelter. They are heat-tolerant but require protection from extreme cold.
• Setup: Due to their size, Boers need at least 300–400 square feet per goat outdoors for grazing and 20–30 square feet per goat indoors for comfortable shelter. Strong fencing at least 5 feet tall is essential to contain these large, strong goats. Woven wire or electric fencing works best to prevent escapes.
• Feeding: Boers are efficient grazers and can forage on brush and weeds, reducing feed costs. During rapid growth or breeding periods, additional grain or supplements are required to support their nutritional needs.
• Breeding: Boers typically give birth to twins or triplets. Their high fertility and strong maternal instincts make them an excellent choice for meat-focused herds.
• Availability: Boers are widely available and highly sought after due to their efficiency as meat producers.

Kiko

Kiko goats are renowned for their hardiness and low-maintenance nature. Bred originally in New Zealand, they are ideal for farmers looking for an efficient, resilient meat goat.

• Size: Kikos are medium to large goats, with does weighing 120–150 pounds and bucks up to 250 pounds. They are slightly smaller than Boers but still highly productive for meat.
• Temperament: Kikos are independent and less reliant on human interaction, making them ideal for pasture-based systems where minimal management is preferred.
• Climate: Highly adaptable, Kikos thrive in a range of climates, including hot, humid, or cold conditions. Their resilience makes them suitable for diverse environments.
• Space: Kikos require 250–350 square feet outdoors per goat and 20–25 square feet indoors per goat. They are active foragers and benefit from larger grazing areas. Additionally, their size makes strong fencing necessary even though they are less likely to test fences than other breeds.
• Feeding: Kikos are efficient foragers and can thrive on poor-quality forage, including brush and shrubs. This reduces feed costs significantly. Supplemental feeding is rarely needed unless they are underweight or pregnant.
• Breeding: Kikos often give birth to twins or triplets. They are known for easy kidding and strong maternal instincts, making them a low-maintenance choice for breeding.
• Availability: Kikos are readily available but less common than Boers. Their lower maintenance needs and natural hardiness make them increasingly popular.

Kinder

Kinder goats are versatile, dual-purpose animals known for their manageable size, adaptability, and productivity. They were created by crossing Nubian and Pygmy goats, resulting in a breed that is both efficient for meat production and a reliable dairy goat.

• Size: Kinder goats are medium-sized, with does weighing 115–135 pounds and bucks averaging 135–150 pounds. Their size is easy to manage for beginners while still being productive for meat and milk.
• Temperament: Kinders are friendly, sociable, and curious, making them great companions for families and small-scale farmers. They are also docile and easy to handle.
• Climate: Kinders are adaptable to various climates, from temperate regions to more extreme weather. However, they benefit from insulated shelters in colder climates and shaded areas in hotter regions.
• Setup: Kinders require 200–300 square feet per goat for grazing and exercise. Their dual-purpose nature means they will benefit from diverse browsing areas. Use sturdy fencing at least 4–5 feet tall, as they are active and will test weak spots.
• Feeding: Kinders are efficient foragers and do well on a hay, pasture, and goat-specific minerals diet. As a meat and dairy breed, lactating requires supplemental grain or alfalfa to maintain body condition and milk production.
• Breeding: Kinders often produce multiple kids per kidding (3–4 is common). Their Nubian lineage gives them strong maternal instincts, and they’re known for easy kidding.
• Availability: Kinder goats are widely available in the United States.

Frequently Asked Questions About Raising Goats

How many goats should I start with?

Goats are herd animals – meaning they thrive in the company of other goats. A lonely goat is an unhappy goat, so it’s best to start with at least two. If you want more goats, a small herd of four is still manageable for a beginner.

Choose goats of similar size and temperament so they have a better chance of getting along.

What is the friendliest goat breed?

A friendly goat is dependent on care and attention. Bottle goats raised by people from birth are known to follow you around and be overly friendly no matter what breed.

However, Nigerian Dwarfs and Nubians are among the friendliest goat breeds. Nigerian Dwarfs are small, gentle, and great with children, while Nubians are affectionate and love interacting with their owners. These breeds are ideal for beginners looking for a personable addition to their farm.

What breed of goat stays small?

Nigerian Dwarfs and Pygmy goats are two breeds that stay small. Both are under 23 inches tall and weigh between 50–75 pounds as adults. Their compact size makes them easier to handle and care for, especially for beginners or those with limited space.

Can you mix different goat breeds in one herd?

Yes, you can mix different goat breeds in one herd as long as they are of similar size and temperament. Goats are social animals and generally adapt well to mixed herds.

However, avoid pairing large, aggressive goats with smaller, more timid breeds to prevent bullying.

Start Your Goat Journey Right

Choosing the right goat breed is the foundation of a successful and enjoyable goat-raising experience. By considering your goals – whether it’s fresh milk, quality meat, or a playful farm companion – you can find a breed that fits your needs and lifestyle.

Visit your nearest Wilco location or shop our website to explore our farm and ranch supplies. Let’s get started on building your happy, healthy herd together!