Goats make wonderful pets for the right owners. These intelligent, affectionate, and entertaining animals have been companions to humans for thousands of years, and their popularity as backyard pets continues to grow. Whether you're considering a Pygmy goat or a Nigerian Dwarf, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about keeping goats as pets.

Can You Have a Goat as a Pet?

Yes, you can absolutely have a goat as a pet, and many people find them to be excellent companions. Pet goats offer several unique advantages over traditional pets:

• Intelligent and trainable - Goats can learn their names, come when called, and perform tricks
• Affectionate - They bond closely with their owners and enjoy human interaction
• Entertaining - Their playful antics provide endless amusement
• Useful - Many pet goats also provide milk, help with brush clearing, or simply serve as lawn care assistants

However, goats aren't right for everyone. Before getting a pet goat, consider:

• Space requirements - Goats need outdoor space to roam
• Zoning laws - Many areas have restrictions on keeping livestock
• Social needs - Goats are herd animals and need companions
• Long-term commitment - Pet goats can live 10-15 years

Best Pet Goat Breeds

Not all goat breeds make ideal pets. The best pet goat breeds are typically smaller, have gentle temperaments, and are easy to handle. Here are the top choices:

1. Pygmy Goat - Most Popular Pet Goat

The Pygmy goat is the most popular pet goat breed in America, and for good reason:

Characteristic	Details
Size	16-23 inches tall, 35-60 lbs
Temperament	Friendly, playful, excellent with children
Lifespan	10-15 years
Care Level	Easy - great for beginners
Cost	$75-$300

Why Pygmy goats make great pets:

• Compact size suitable for smaller properties
• Hardy and disease-resistant
• Social and affectionate personalities
• Low maintenance requirements
• Readily available from breeders

2. Nigerian Dwarf Goat - Best for Milk + Companionship

Nigerian Dwarf goats are slightly smaller than Pygmies and offer the bonus of excellent milk production:

Characteristic	Details
Size	17-21 inches tall, 30-50 lbs
Temperament	Gentle, curious, easy to handle
Lifespan	12-14 years
Milk Production	1-2 quarts daily
Cost	$200-$500

Why Nigerian Dwarf goats make great pets:

• Smallest dairy breed - manageable size
• High-butterfat milk for cheese and soap making
• Variety of color patterns and markings
• Breed year-round (unlike seasonal breeders)
• Extremely gentle with children

3. Miniature Silky Fainting Goat

A smaller version of the Fainting Goat, these unique pets have the myotonic trait that causes temporary muscle stiffness:

Characteristic	Details
Size	18-23 inches tall, 40-70 lbs
Temperament	Calm, docile, easy to contain
Unique Trait	"Fainting" response when startled
Lifespan	10-12 years
Cost	$300-$600

4. Miniature Nubian

A downsized version of the Nubian, these goats combine the breed's distinctive ears with a more manageable size:

Characteristic	Details
Size	23-29 inches tall, 65-100 lbs
Temperament	Friendly, vocal, personable
Lifespan	12-15 years
Best For	Those wanting a slightly larger pet with personality

5. Kinder Goat

Kinder goats are a Pygmy/Nubian cross that offers dual-purpose capabilities:

Characteristic	Details
Size	20-26 inches tall, 115-145 lbs
Temperament	Friendly, calm, family-oriented
Production	Both milk and meat potential
Best For	Small farms wanting versatility

How Much Does a Pet Goat Cost?

Understanding the full cost of pet goat ownership helps you plan properly.

Initial Purchase Costs

Goat Type	Price Range	Notes
Pet-quality Pygmy	$75-$200	Unregistered, may have minor faults
Registered Pygmy	$200-$400	Papers, breeding potential
Nigerian Dwarf (pet)	$150-$300	Unregistered
Nigerian Dwarf (registered)	$300-$500	Milk lines, show potential
Miniature Fainting	$300-$600	Higher due to rarity
Wethers (neutered males)	$50-$150	Often cheapest option

Pro tip: Wethers (neutered males) make excellent pets and are typically the most affordable option. They can't breed and don't have the hormonal behaviors of intact bucks.

Ongoing Annual Costs

Expense	Annual Cost	Notes
Feed (hay + grain)	$200-$400	Per goat
Minerals/supplements	$30-$60	Essential for health
Veterinary care	$100-$300	Routine + emergency fund
Hoof trimming	$0-$100	DIY or professional
Bedding	$100-$200	Straw or wood shavings
Fencing maintenance	$50-$150	Repairs and updates
Total per goat	$480-$1,210

Remember: You'll need at least TWO goats, so double these figures for minimum costs.

Pet Goat Housing Requirements

Proper housing is essential for keeping pet goats healthy and happy.

Shelter Basics

Goats need a three-sided shelter at minimum to protect from:

• Rain and wind
• Extreme heat and cold
• Snow and ice

Minimum space requirements:

• 15-20 square feet per goat in shelter
• 200+ square feet outdoor space per goat

For detailed shelter plans, see our guide on how to build a goat barn or portable goat shelter.

Fencing for Pet Goats

Goats are notorious escape artists. Your fencing must be:

• At least 4 feet tall for miniature breeds
• Secure at the bottom - goats will squeeze under gaps
• Sturdy construction - they'll test every weak point

Best fencing options:

1. Welded wire panels - Most secure
2. Chain link - Excellent but expensive
3. Woven wire with wood posts - Good balance
4. Electric fence - Can supplement other fencing

Read more in our goat fencing guide.

Enrichment and Play Structures

Pet goats need mental stimulation. Provide:

• Climbing structures - Platforms, spools, large rocks
• Things to jump on - Stumps, pallets, playground equipment
• Exploration opportunities - Rotate toys and objects

See our guide on building a goat playground for ideas.

Feeding Your Pet Goat

Proper nutrition keeps your pet goat healthy for years. For complete details, see our feeding goats guide.

Daily Diet Basics

Food Type	Amount	Notes
Hay	Unlimited	2-4% of body weight daily
Fresh water	Always available	Clean, fresh daily
Minerals	Free choice	Loose goat minerals (not blocks)
Grain (optional)	1/2-1 cup daily	For milking does or growing kids

Best Hay for Pet Goats

Quality hay is the foundation of a goat's diet. Read our guide on the best hay for goats.

• Grass hay - Timothy, orchard, brome (daily staple)
• Alfalfa - Higher protein, good for kids and milking does
• Mixed hay - Combination works well

Safe Treats for Pet Goats

Goats love treats! Safe options include:

• Apples (remove seeds)
• Carrots
• Bananas
• Pumpkin (natural dewormer!)
• Watermelon

Treats should be less than 10% of daily diet.

Foods to Avoid

Never feed pet goats:

• Dog or cat food
• Chocolate
• Avocado
• Moldy feed
• Processed human foods

See our complete list of toxic plants for goats.

Pet Goat Health Care

Preventive care keeps your pet goat healthy and can prevent costly veterinary bills.

Routine Health Tasks

Task	Frequency	Learn More
Hoof trimming	Every 6-8 weeks	Hoof trimming guide
Deworming	As needed (FAMACHA)	Deworming guide
Vaccinations	Annually (CDT)	Consult veterinarian
Body condition check	Weekly	Monitor weight changes

Common Health Issues

Be aware of these common goat diseases:

• Parasites - Most common issue in goats
• Bloat - Emergency! See bloat prevention
• Hoof rot - From wet conditions
• Respiratory infections - From poor ventilation

Finding a Goat Veterinarian

Before getting pet goats, locate a veterinarian who treats goats. Not all vets work with livestock. Ask:

• Local goat clubs for recommendations
• Feed stores for referrals
• Agricultural extension offices

Legal Considerations for Pet Goats

Before getting goats, research your local regulations.

Zoning and Livestock Laws

Many areas have restrictions on:

• Number of animals allowed
• Minimum lot size requirements
• Setback distances from property lines
• Permits required

Contact your local:

• Zoning department
• Animal control
• HOA (if applicable)

Noise Considerations

Goats can be vocal, especially:

• Nigerian Dwarfs and Nubians tend to be louder
• Does in heat
• Goats separated from companions

Pygmy goats are generally quieter than dairy breeds.

Training Your Pet Goat

Goats are intelligent and can learn many behaviors.

Basic Training

Start with these basics:

1. Name recognition - Use treats as rewards
2. Coming when called - Practice daily with food
3. Leading on a leash - Start young, use collar and lead
4. Standing for hoof care - Patience and routine

Tricks and Advanced Training

Pet goats can learn:

• Jumping through hoops
• Standing on hind legs
• Pushing balls
• Going through obstacle courses

The key is positive reinforcement with treats and consistency.

Pet Goats with Children and Other Pets

Goats and Children

Pet goats can be wonderful for children, teaching responsibility and providing companionship. Best practices:

• Supervise interactions with young children
• Teach proper handling - support body, no ear-pulling
• Start with calm breeds - Pygmies and Nigerian Dwarfs are ideal
• Involve kids in care - Age-appropriate chores build bonds

Goats and Dogs

Many goats coexist well with dogs, but:

• Introduce gradually - Supervised, on-leash meetings
• Protect young kids - Dogs can injure baby goats
• Consider breed - Herding breeds may stress goats
• Never leave unsupervised until trust is established

Goats and Other Livestock

Pet goats often do well with:

• Chickens and ducks
• Horses and donkeys
• Sheep
• Alpacas and llamas

Where to Buy Pet Goats

Reputable Sources

1. Registered breeders - Best for quality
2. Local goat clubs - Networking opportunities
3. Agricultural fairs - See animals in person
4. Farm auctions - Proceed with caution

Red Flags to Avoid

Watch out for:

• Goats sold alone (they need companions)
• Unusually low prices
• Sellers who won't show living conditions
• No health history available
• Aggressive or fearful goats

Questions to Ask Breeders

1. What vaccines has this goat received?
2. When was it last dewormed?
3. What is the goat eating currently?
4. Can I see the parents?
5. Is there a health guarantee?

Is a Pet Goat Right for You?

You're a Good Fit If:

• You have outdoor space (min. 200 sq ft per goat)
• Local zoning allows goats
• You can commit to 10-15 years
• You're willing to get at least TWO goats
• You enjoy outdoor activities and animal care
• You have a plan for vacations and emergencies

You May Want to Reconsider If:

• You live in a strict HOA community
• You want a single, indoor pet
• You travel frequently without backup care
• You're not comfortable with basic medical care
• Your budget is very tight

FAQ: Pet Goats

How long do pet goats live? Pet goats typically live 10-15 years with proper care. Pygmy goats and Nigerian Dwarfs often live 12-15 years.

Do pet goats smell bad? Female goats (does) and neutered males (wethers) have minimal odor. Intact male goats (bucks) have a strong smell, especially during breeding season, and are not recommended as pets.

Can you have just one pet goat? No, goats are herd animals and become depressed, vocal, and destructive when kept alone. Always keep at least two goats together.

Do pet goats need vaccinations? Yes, pet goats should receive CDT vaccine (Clostridium perfringens types C & D and tetanus) annually. Consult with a veterinarian for your area's recommendations.

Can pet goats be house-trained? Goats cannot be reliably house-trained like dogs. They are outdoor animals and should not be kept inside permanently. Some owners bring goats inside briefly, but they will have accidents.

What is the best pet goat for beginners? Pygmy goats are often recommended for beginners due to their small size, hardy nature, friendly temperament, and relatively low maintenance requirements.