Dogs and goat question?

Question

i want to get a pet dwarf goat or possibly a cow, mini horse, or some sort of animal like those, possibly even a bison, was wondering because the pasture they would stay in is close to house, and the dogs would more then likely spend lots of time with them, and was wondering if the dogs would be enough company for the dwarf goat, knowing they need lots of attention. which animal is most recommended and easiest to raise, as in food, attention needed, and all

Answer 1

Hi,

I own goats, and usually goats plus dogs doesn't turn out good.  Goats are naturally prey to dogs. Also goats are a herd animal, and can not live alone.

Answer 2

Goats are herd animals and really need another of their kind to be happy.    They would not be happy with dogs as their only companions.  Also goats need pretty good fencing - if the dogs can get in and out of their pasture, the goats will be able to get out.  What kind of dogs do you have?  Lots of dogs will kill goats.

The price of goats varies from really low to really high.  I've seen them as low as $10 to as high as $4000.  Most goats that you will buy from a reputable breeder will be 200-400 for a breeding animal or pet doe, but if you are looking for a pet, most breeders have wethers available for $50-100.  Wethers are 'fixed' males.  They do not have the hormones that makes intact male goats stink.  Wethers make great pets.

Feed high quality grass/alfalfa mix hay.  NO mold!  A three sided shelter is usually sufficient for goats as long as there is no draft.

You can see a lot more information on goats on my website:

http://greengablesfarm.tripod.com

Also there are lots of good goat forums you can join to learn more about goats:

http://thegoatspot.net

http://dairygoatinfo.com/index.php