Suggestions on Training Goats to a Milking Stand

[HoneyDreameMomma]

We have a few Nigerian Dwarf Goats that are not milking stand trained. Given their size, we can lift them and put them on the stand, but that gets rather exhausting, especially since they're pregnant right now and weigh more than they usually do. They hate having their head held in the stand and scream and pull. They struggle so much they lose their footing, and though so far I've managed to catch them, I'm worried one of them will damage her neck or legs. Having food in the bucket helps for a minute, but never enough time to do anything. Clipping hooves has been a nightmare, and I'm not looking forward to milking.

Any one want to share their advice/experience? Thanks!

 

[SA Farm]

You could try easing into it. Start with rewarding them (treats or grain) for getting up there, without locking them in. The slowly start getting them to put their heads through the stanchion without locking it. Keep at it and eventually they'll associate the milking stand with only good things and will want to go there.
I have a ND doe that it was a real struggle getting her to hold still/not kick when milking her, it took about three weeks of bribes and sticking to our guns and now I can milk her without even tying her. So it can be done!

 

[frustratedearthmother]

X2

 

[HoneyDreameMomma]

Thanks for the suggestions - I'll try it.

 

[dhansen]

I usually start pulling each pregnant doe out for some grain the last 6 weeks of pregnancy. I walk them to the stand, get them up into it, and basically bribe them with food. While up on the stand, I rub their bellies, sides and touch their udders, just to get them used to it. (That sounds very strange!) After a week or so, they usually aren't fighting me much. If they give me grief when I try milking after all that, I hobble them until they the hang of it.

 

[Brynn]

I have a cup that I put black oil sunflower seeds (Best treat ever to my doe) and I'll shake it to make her come over to me. I used a leash to show her where I wanted her to go for the first week and gave lots of treats. My first goal was to get her to go in and out of the stand on her own but on a leash. I rewarded with treats every 5 feet or so. she got used to the routine and I was able to remove the leash. Then I was able to give fewer treats. Now she is totally independent. Fussy on the stand, but great to get on and off!!