Keeping goats as pets

Owning goats is very rewarding and enjoyable, but it’s also a big commitment and can be time-consuming and expensive. Before getting goats, it's important to consider if you have the time, resources, commitment, knowledge and facilities to care for them. Goats aren't gardeners, so an overgrown garden or hedge isn't a good reason to get one!

Do goats make good pets?

Here are some things to bear in mind if you're thinking about keeping goats as pets.

Goats can be destructive to fences, housing and gardens.
They can be noisy, so may not be popular with your neighbours.
Uncastrated male goats have a very strong smell and can be aggressive, while larger castrated males are powerful and difficult to handle. Neither are really suitable for keeping as pets. Instead, choose castrated males from smaller breeds, such as pygmy goats, or females.
Female goats need milking twice a day, every day, if they're producing milk (lactating). You should only get a lactating goat if you're prepared to put in the work and time needed for this.
Goats can live for 12 years or longer.

Making your mind up

Don’t rush your decision. Read up on goat health and welfare and also reach out to experienced goat owners to ask questions – see if you visit them and their animals. Take a look at local goat societies and the British Goat Society. They’re an invaluable source of help and information. Research the breeds available and which would suit your set-up best, as well as the differences between male and female goats and young and older animals, horned vs hornless. As we said above, uncastrated males aren’t suitable as pets. We advise novice owners that hornless goats will be easier and safer for them to handle, especially if children are helping care for them.

Goats are social herd animals and need another goat, or goats, who they get on well with for company.

To keep healthy and happy goats, you need to think about what they eat, where they live, how to look after their health, what company they need, and how you can help them behave in a natural way. Owners of pet goats also need to meet a number of legal requirements.

Our animal centres sometimes have pet goats in need of good homes, and you could also think about rehoming farm animals. If you prefer to buy from a breeder, the British Goat Society should be able to advise on reputable goat breeders near you.

Going ahead?

Make sure you have everything in place before your goats arrive. Here are some areas you’ll need to think about.

Make sure you comply with the relevant legislation covering goat identification, movements, and holding registration. Take a look at what paperwork you need to complete well before your goats are due to arrive.
Even if your goats are simply pets, any premises where goats are kept are classed as agricultural holdings. The premises must be registered with the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra).
Look at the UK Government’s Codes or Recommendations for the Welfare of Livestock: Goats.
Find a suitable vehicle to pick up your goats and plan the journey so you minimise stress for them.
Ask the previous owner about each goat’s vaccination history, diet and behaviour.
Have all housing, bedding, fencing and feeding facilities ready before your goats arrive.
Find a suitable vet in advance and book in a health check for soon after your goats arrive.

Once your goats arrive, make sure they have a few days’ peace and quiet as they get used to their new home. Give them enough hay and water and be gentle and calm towards them.

A note on breeding goats

We advise new goat owners against breeding from their goats. They often produce twins, triplets or even quads and, as the owner, the babies (kids) are your responsibility.