Hopeful first time goat owners!

[Alexz7272]

Hello,

So my significant other and I purchased a former horse farm sitting on 4 acres and are slowly adapting it to be our own little homestead. We have our fields planted, have our hens and now would like to move onto goats! My family came from Lithuania and has used goats for many different resources. Unfortunately I only ever enjoyed the products and never paid much attention otherwise. We are hoping to get a few dairy goats as I know many recipes and other uses for goats milk. Could anyone give us some advice on what is the best for beginners? We would like to convert the old stable areas to be housing for the goats (I will try to attach a picture). Would the area be sufficient for the goats and how much space would we need to give them to roam? Also, (I know a lot of questions in one paragraph, sorry) what type of fencing is best? The land was foreclosed on and the former owner tore up all the fencing before we moved in. Any help or advice in GREATLY appreciated!

This is what the property looked like before we purchased it: http://binged.it/1rSGUdn

This is what it looks like right after purchasing it:
https://www.google.com/maps/place/79...9cb12264823241

We really want to work off of the backside of that garage where they have a shelter already in place and re-purpose that for the goats. We will be ensuring it is all structurally safe of course and putting in new siding, posts etc, hence why we want to do it all at the same time!As you can see, the property has a weird perimeter, so we are struggling with placement and such.

[dozedotz]

The area you intend to repurpose for a goat shelter: How big is it? Looks like maybe 10x12? IF that is correct, 2 full sized goats with one LGD would be a full house IMO.
Using cattle panels for a say 32 x 48 paddock area would allow outside space, be easy to assemble, not very expensive, sturdy if put up correctly and FAST. Later you could consider fencing more for actual pasture area...but it appears that the "horse" pasture would need some work for healthy goats...may just be google. LOL. You could purchase 2 doelings next spring from the same herd (sisters, friends) who get along and are used to each other ...that would give them a companion. OR purchase a doe and her doeling...that would give you milk to start with (maybe). I would recommend Nubians or LaManchas...lots of milk for your recipes and good taste. When you get to the rest of the fencing I would consider something really, really reliable due to the street situation and either have it done professionally ($$) or plan on getting some really good advice for your corners, etc. Goats are escape artists...even two little sweet girls!! Temperatures in Co? Might want to consider some expensive upgrades like running heated water for the girls,
Think about how far the house is from the goats and what you are willing to handle by walking or on an ATV, etc. That may help you decide where to go with cash and where to skimp...at least at first. If you plan on getting a buck or want to break up your BIG pasture area in the future, better to lay those PLANS now...you can add on as time and need and cash allow. Congrats on your wonderful new place! Good Luck!