Goats are one of the cutest and kindest pets you can keep in your backyard. Miniature goats are especially adorable, and easy to keep if you have an average sized block and a lot of love to give, but you can also keep regular sized pet goats if you have a little more space. Larger goats are quite docile, so don't let their size deter you, while miniature goat breeds are usually slightly more active and playful! Check out the top 5 goat breeds for your backyard!
The Australian Miniature Goat Breed
GOAT FACT! The Australian Miniature Goat breed was developed exclusively to be kept as pets.
- Size: About 60cm tall
- Temperament: Gentle, friendly and playful
- Lifespan: 10-15 years
- Varieties: Elf, Pixie, Munchkin and Nuwby
The Pygmy Goat Breed
GOAT FACT! Pygmy goats, developed from West African dwarf goats in the 1950s, are the most common breed of goats kept as backyard pets.
- Size: About 60cm tall
- Temperament: Friendly and active
- Lifespan: 10-15 years
The Nigerian Dwarf Goat Breed
GOAT FACT! Nigerian Dwarf Goats were brought to the western world from West Africa as food for captured carnivores destined for zoos.
- Size: About 60cm tall
- Temperament: Gentle and lovable
- Lifespan: 10-15 years
The Boer Goat Breed
GOAT FACT! The Boer goat breed was developed in the early 1900s for meat production in South Africa. The word Boer means farmer in Afrikaans.
- Size: About 90cm tall
- Temperament: Gentle and lovable
- Lifespan: 8-12 years
The Toggenburg Goat Breed
GOAT FACT! Toggenburg goats are clever, alert and respond well to training. The breed originated in Switzerland and was officially introduced to Australia in the 1940s.
- Size: About 80cm tall
- Temperament: Docile and friendly
- Lifespan: 8-12 years
- Suits colder or temperate climates
Are you ready to get jumpin’? Hoof it over to our ultimate guide to keeping pet goats in your backyard here. Already a goat keeper? Keep your herd in line with our easy to set up portable electric fencing.
