what type of goat

mvd12720 · #1 04/21/10, 10:46 PM

Well my sons horse died today he was 24 and we were talking and he wants a goat that can pull a cart but what kind would be best

HillsideWayCSA · #2 04/21/10, 11:04 PM

Why not a miniature horse or pony instead? If he's had a horse for a long time he might enjoy teaching a new one.

jBlaze · #3 04/21/10, 11:43 PM

saanen and alpine are typically the largest. Saanens are usually pretty calm, alpines tend to have a bit of spunk. These are generalities however, from having many of each.

mvd12720 · #4 04/22/10, 07:50 AM

Thank you

shiandpete.1 · #5 04/22/10, 08:06 AM

A cart goat would be so fun! Wether goats tend to be bigger than a female. I second a Saanen, they are big and quiet.

I am sorry about your horse, we have a 32 year old and I am waiting for that day.

saanengirl · #6 04/22/10, 09:39 AM

Saanens tend to be bigger framed than Alpines, as well as having a calmer temperament. This makes them excellent as cart goats. You definitely want a wether (neutered male). They are stronger than does, and easier to handle (and less smelly) than bucks. One thing to keep in mind is that goats are VERY different from horses. It is easy to train them to go left, right, and back, but they only go forward if they want to. They do not respond to a whip. You can beat them all day and if they don't want to go forward, they won't.

Sweet Goats · #7 04/22/10, 03:50 PM

I am so sorry about the horse. I had to put one down in October and it about killed me, and my nephews horse just had to be put down "Colic". It is so hard.

I have also seen a lot of Nubian s pulling carts.

No matter what kind he gets, I would love to see pictures.

deineria · #8 04/22/10, 04:12 PM

I've read Nubians are too lazy to pull a cart -lol, but I love them otherwise. Saanens are often said to be excellent pack goats.