I'm wanting to get a dairy goat to produce milk for me and my family. I have heard it's best to have at least 2 or either another hoofed animal for a friend. Would it be better if I had two goats or would one sheep and one goat be okay? And as far as the pen how big would it need to be? I would be raising the young for meat BTW.
Alexz7272
True BYH Addict
I have both sheep and goats, I would recommend 2 goats. While they get along, it is not exactly the same. I am no expert, but would get 2 goats & 2 sheep if you want both 
The rule of thumb I've been told is 10-15 sq ft per a standard goat for a shelter, depends on how you'd like to feed them as well, in pasture or confined?
The rule of thumb I've been told is 10-15 sq ft per a standard goat for a shelter, depends on how you'd like to feed them as well, in pasture or confined?
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- #3
Alexz7272
True BYH Addict
Do you want a fully enclosed shelter? I use a 3 sided hoop house like structure for 3 (soon to be 4) goats, 3 sheep and 2 alpacas. Made with 2 cattle pannels and a tarp. Will be expanded soon to 3 cattle panels as I am growing, but I've had no issues with it!
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- #5
Goat Whisperer
Herd Master
I would not run them together. It may work out at first but with everyone I know, they run into issues down the road unless they have so much land where they can stay away from each other. You will also run into mineral issues too.
You are on very limited space so that is something you want to look at.
If you are planning on have goats for dairy products, I would encourage you to test for CAE, CL, and Johnes at least. Most sheep breeders don't test or don't care- putting your goats at risk. Sore mouth is another issue that is common in sheep. This can spread to goats and you too. You will be touching the goats nose, face, and udder on a regular basis opening you up to a possible greater risk of orf.
You are on very limited space so that is something you want to look at.
If you are planning on have goats for dairy products, I would encourage you to test for CAE, CL, and Johnes at least. Most sheep breeders don't test or don't care- putting your goats at risk. Sore mouth is another issue that is common in sheep. This can spread to goats and you too. You will be touching the goats nose, face, and udder on a regular basis opening you up to a possible greater risk of orf.
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- #7
Goat Whisperer
Herd Master
That is a bit small. The entire area would need to have a good layer of grit to prevent mud. Mud=parasites and hoof issues.
Their pen would need to be raked and swept daily. You would need to to feed lots of good quality hay and feed. Even then, they still wouldn't be able run and play.
Waisted hay will also need to be picked up daily.
What breed are you looking at getting?
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- #9
Goat Whisperer
Herd Master
How much milk will you be needing on a daily basis?
