Goats and chickens?

[Malbri]

Well I guess first of all I need to know if goats can be kept with chickens. Like in a large enclosed area(how large?). Also, if I were to keep them with my chickens, would they provide any defense for them? Like if something were to enter the run, would it run away or attaack it?

 

[cherrychicken]

Quote:
i have a friend who keeps hers together. generally goats are skittish when frightened and almost positively wouldn't protect them, however at my friend's farm the goats aren't top dog, the horses bully the goats...

 

[Malbri]

Well I remember where I boarded my horse the goat they had would always ram people, so I thought even a tamed goat would ram if it felt indangered.

 

[Malbri]

And for things entering the run, im not talking anything larger than a little fox, which is what has gotten 5 of my chickens this year

 

[MissPrissy]

A goat will not protect or defend your flock. Goats are very skittish when on the defensive.

 

[Malbri]

Well im still interested in having them as pets, and even for milk. Even if they wont defend them, can they still be kept with chickens? I looked it up and my chicken run isnt big enough for them full time, as its only 16 feet long, but would I be able to keep them in it for when im not home (I'm at school till about 3), then have like a tie out for them when im home?

 

[tfpets]

Quote:
Uh ohh, I hope they're okay together?

Mine are pygmy goats, and they are fine, great for rides for the chickens, and sharing tubs!

 

[MissPrissy]

To tie out a goat all day is very dangerous. You may come home to either a injured or dead goat or one that broke away and ran off. They need a solid fenced yard to call thei own. They can climb and bored goats are destructive.

 

[Malbri]

Quote:
Uh ohh, I hope they're okay together?

http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj133/tfpets/Poolofgoats.jpg

Mine are pygmy goats, and they are fine, great for rides for the chickens, and sharing tubs!

That is just too cute, thanks for the pics!

 

[Malbri]

Quote:
Well I said they would be tied when I am home, enclosed in the chicken run when gone, is that ok? The reason I liked the idea of a tie out is because I can move it to provide a variety of forages.