a single goat

arnie · #1 03/14/14, 10:03 PM

I have had a dairy cow for several years .but the worst happened this winter and i'v lost my gentel friend . as i'v been look for a replacement i'v been considering a dairy goat not only because the cost of a good cow is scary but my dairy needs are less .my question is could I keep just 1 doe or would she be miserable

**mygoat** · #2 03/14/14, 10:07 PM

They really do better with a companion. It doesn't have to be a dairy doe if you don't need extra milk - though she would be dry for a few months out of the year so if you stagger their freshening, you'll have milk all year. (of course, some people savor the break... :P)

You could also keep a wether companion. I would just not suggest a buck for a constant companion for a multitude of reasons.

cfuhrer · #3 03/14/14, 10:43 PM

A companion goat is best.

A companion dog or other critter would work.

If gotten young (bottle baby young) you can raise her like a dog and imprint her on you; but unless you want her sleeping on the bed at night...

Squeaky McMurdo · #4 03/15/14, 03:05 AM

I think it really depends on the goat. Most of them do prefer the company of other goats but I think my girl Cocoa would really rather be an only goat. She was dam raised so I'm not sure how she came to that conclusion, but she really is much happier and relaxed now that she has her own pen next to the other goats. When she is in with other goats she spends most of her time keeping them away from her. She doesn't mind the dogs or chickens and she did cooperate with the buck when she was in heat.

Backfourty,MI. · #5 03/15/14, 12:06 PM

I agree with the others, best to get her a companion. A wether would be perfect & they are so friendly & lovable. He'd let you know en she's in heat also so you could get her bred.