For a long time now, goats have been used for dairy, meat, and grazing purposes. However, reason studies have shown that they are actually excellent pets that are capable of deep and meaningful emotion! However, there have been numerous studies that confirm that they may even be as smart as some of your favorite companions!
Yes, you heard correctly. Goats may be just as smart as dogs! These studies even show that they are capable of building bonds with humans!
Could Goats Be the New Dogs?
For a long time now, goats have been dealing with stigma. They are constantly let down by the stereotype that they are useless, mindless animals with no real meaning or personality. In fact, many people tend to see goats as dumb animals.
However, goats really aren’t dumb animals. In fact, they are very capable of forming bonds, communicating with other species, and being loyal to their human and animal companions. While they wouldn’t be most people’s first choice for companions, they make excellent friends for both animals and humans alike.
In fact, many studies have proven that goats are just as clever as dogs and may become man’s new best friend. They are also very loving and build emotional and loyal relationships with people. Yes, they really are just as good as dogs!
When goats are having a hard time completing a task, studies have shown that they stare at their owners in need of help. This is also a trait that dogs show making them very alike.
Do Goats Make Good Companions?
Of course, they do! Goats are very well known for their loyal, charismatic, and charming personalities. This makes them ideal companions for animals and even humans.
They also make great first pets for kids as they are super friendly and funny. Just know, some breeds of goats are much more suited to being pets. That is why doing your research is so important.
These days, goats are rarely seen as a means to eat. They are becoming far more popular as companions on hobby farms. Now, more than ever before, people are discovering just how much joy goats can bring to their lives.
These hairy little critters have so much to offer humans. That is why it is great to see so many people realizing how great goats are as companions.
What You Need to Know About Goats as Pets
First, it is important to do your research before you choose a goat as your companion. They are very boisterous, curious, and playful animals. This is something that is embedded in their nature.
This is why it is crucial to provide them with an enclosure or paddock that allows them to be active.
It is very important to know how to care for your goat and what they will need before you buy them. Make sure you do your research via reputable websites, veterinary guides, and books. It is also good to establish a relationship with your nearest vet in case of an emergency.
It may even be a good idea to go hang out with some goats at a hobby farm to see how they live. This will also give you an idea of whether or not you’re going to get along with goats. It will give you the chance to understand their personalities and needs.
Which Goat Breeds Make the Best Pets?
Most goats can be good pets, but if you’re looking for a companion, it’s a good idea to stick to breeds that are known for being good pets. The following breeds are the most common choices:
Pygmy Goats
Pygmy goats are very popular amongst hobby farmers. This is because they are small, cute, and very cuddly. At the max, these goats only really grow to 23 inches tall.
Baby goats, known as kids, are usually available to purchase year-round as these goats breed at any time of year. While they aren’t the only breed that makes good pets, they do come highly recommended.
Miniature Silky Fainting Goats
Also known as mini silkies or just silkies, these goats are not just super cute, they’re super loving too! They love to bond and spend quality time with their companions. Their long coats sweep the floor, and they even have fringes!
If you’re looking for the cutest and most loving companion ever, this is the breed to go with.
Kinder Goats
Kinder goats make great pets, especially for children. This is because they’re a super nice size and easy to handle. These affectionate and intelligent goats are very easy to hang out with, train, and look after.
They thrive on attention. So, just make sure you’ve got plenty of time to spend with them if you plan on buying one.
Do Your Research
Before you purchase a goat as a companion, make sure you do a lot of research and reflect on why you want to keep a goat as a pet. Goats are commonly known for being destructive. This is why they are not for the faint of heart.
It is also a good idea to consider buying a female or a castrated male. Uncastrated males can be very smelly. They can also be very aggressive at times.
They have even been known to be difficult to handle. It is also good to know that they do prefer friends. Consider getting two or three goats rather than just having one lone goat.
Goats love to socialize. If you purchase a single goat, you may notice that they will become bored, scared, overwhelmed, or frustrated. Obviously, this isn’t fun for goats or humans. Keeping goats together is ideal, but you can also keep them with sheep, cows, or horses if you can’t get another goat for companionship.
If you’re considering starting a hobby farm, you may like our blog on ‘The Emotional World of Farmed Animals’!
