Fencing for Goats in Pasture
Giving your goats a protected place to graze is a good way to raise a healthy and happy herd. But how do you keep them contained? This list of ideas for fencing for goats in pasture will help you make the best choice for your setup.
Goat fence ideas that you can use to create a grazing pasture on your homestead for your dairy goats and other livestock animals.
If you have goats, then you probably know how important grazing is to a herd.
Not only does it help with feed costs, but it gives your herd the chance to do what they love most, to graze and eat and enjoy being outdoors.
With so many fencing options available, finding the best one for your setup and herd size can be tricky.
To help, I have my top picks to share with you so you can get an overview of what is available, along with a few tips on why I love it and what you may want to be aware of before getting started.
Why is using the correct fencing important in a pasture?
Proper fencing is important, especially when your goats are out in the pasture. Not only do you need to keep them inside where it’s safe, but you also want to keep any predators out and away from your herd.
You need a fence that is able to stand up to the weather year round so it can do it’s job, protect from both sides.
Do you need movable fence?
No, you do not need a movable fence, but I like incorporating it into our layout. We have a permanent border fence around our entire pasture with a movable fence inside.
This fence is used to section off different areas that we open up periodically to our herd.
Rotational grazing is when you routinely move your herd around the pasture, always giving them fresh grass to graze on.
This type of grazing is an effective way to keep your goats healthy and better able to withstand any worms they may find while in the field.
It also helps to keep your pasture in good condition because you give it time to recover between grazings.
Fencing for Goats in Pasture
When it comes to selecting the right fencing for your goats while they’re in the pasture, there are several things to keep in mind.
- How much area do you need to fence in?
- What is your overall budget?
- Will you be installing the fence alone, or will you have help?
- What is the weather like in your area?
Keep the answers to these questions in mind as you read over the options we have listed below.
#1. Electric Fence
Our top pick for pasture fencing is electric, mainly because we find it the best option for keeping our goats inside and keeping deer and other animals out.
What is it:
An electric fence uses electric shocks to deter animals from crossing. It comes in different styles, including wire, netting, tape, or high tensile.
Electric fences use a mild electric shock to discourage goats from trying to get out of the enclosed area. Let’s break down the different types.
#1. High Tensile
High Tensile is a permanent option that is a good fit for large pastures. It is best to hire someone to install this option, as special tools and equipment are needed.
This option will be your most expensive to install, but it can add to the value of your home if you ever decide to sell.
#2. Wire or Tape
Wire or tape is a quick and inexpensive way to fence in a pasture area.
You can use wood stakes and fence nails to DIY this option, and it works great on uneven terrains. This will allow you to fence in any area, from pasture to woods and hills.
#3. Fence Netting
Fence netting is my favorite pick because it is something I can set up or move without any help. It is midrange in cost, but it will hold up for many years, making it a good investment.
This kind of fencing is great because it is so versatile.
It is easy to set up and install, simple to move, and more sections can be purchased to increase the grazing area as your herd grows. or expanded as your herd size and grazing areas change.
The only downfall of fence netting is it will need to be removed and stored during the winter as snow piling up on the fence can cause it to stretch and weaken.
Maintenance Tips:
Maintaining your electric fence will help it last longer and ensure it continues to do its job of protecting effectively. Here are a few tips:
#1. Regular Inspection: Regularly walk along your fence line to check for damage. Look out for broken wires, loose posts, or anything touching the fence that might ground it and cause power loss.
This is a good task to do monthly throughout the year. The sooner you find an issue the more quickly you can get it taken care of.
#2. Cleanliness: Keep your fence line clear of growth. Plants or grass touching an electric fence can ground it, leading to power loss. In the spring and summer, we mow down the line every other week to ensure the fence it working properly.
#3. Voltage Checks: Use a voltage meter to ensure your fence delivers the right amount of power.
A significant voltage drop might indicate a problem with the strength. This is another task to have on your monthly list.
#4. Winter Preparation: Don’t forget to remove and store your portable fence netting during winter to prevent damage from snow accumulation.
#5. Replacement: Replace any worn-out parts immediately. Regular maintenance will help you spot these issues on time.
#2. Wood Fences
Wood fences are a common choice for many homesteaders because they are the most practical. These fences are popular because they have a natural look, allowing them to blend into the landscape.
They provide a sturdy barrier for most animals, including goats, that is, if they are not determined to get out.
Just a note: without electricity, a goat can jump this fence option, and that is something you will want to keep in mind when making your choice.
Hardwoods like oak or cedar are the most common woods to use for this fence mainly because of their durability and resistance to rot.
Wood fences require a significant upfront investment, which is the bad news, but the good news is they can stay up all winter long and will last for many years.
You will need to do routine inspections of this fence option to stay on top of any damage or rot that will need to be repaired.
On the downside, wood fences require labor to build, but you may be able to hire this project out if you are not able to do it yourself.
Even though there are a few cons for this pasture fence option, we love this pick as it does add to the look of a home and the value if you ever decide to sell.
Maintenance Tips:
- Regular Inspection: Always check for any signs of damage or decay in the wood. Early detection can save you from costly repairs in the future.
- Cleaning: Clean your wood fence with a mild detergent and water to remove dirt, mildew, and mold.
- Sealing: To prolong the lifespan of your wood fence, consider applying a sealant. This will protect the wood from moisture and UV damage.
- Painting: A fresh coat of paint can not only enhance the look of your fence but also provide an additional layer of protection against the elements.
- Pest Control: Be on the lookout for signs of insect infestation. Termites and other wood-boring insects can cause serious damage if not addressed promptly.
- Replacement of Damaged Parts: Make sure to replace any rotten or broken panels as soon as possible to maintain the integrity of your fence.
#3. Chain Link Fences
Chain link fences are another practical option for homesteaders, offering durability and longevity.
The strength of this type of fence makes it an excellent choice for containing animals that are notorious for their escape antics, such as goats.
Made from galvanized steel wire, chain link fences stand up well to harsh weather conditions, unlike fence netting, and don’t require the regular maintenance associated with wood fences.
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On the downside, they do not look as good as a wood fence. Not a deal breaker, but it’s something to keep in mind.
Putting up a chain link fence requires muscle, and that means you may want to hire out this project. This fence is more expensive as well, but that’s because it is a long-term solution.
Once installed, a chain link fence can last for decades with minimal maintenance, providing a reliable option to enclose your goats and other livestock.
Maintenance Tips:
- Regular Inspection: Similar to other fences, chain link fences benefit from regular inspection. Look for any signs of damage, such as bent or broken wires, loose posts, or rust spots.
- Cleaning: Keep your chain link fence clean using a simple solution of water and dish detergent. This will not only keep the fence looking good but also prevent buildup of dirt and grime which can lead to rust.
- Rust Treatment: If you notice any rust spots, it is crucial to address them immediately. Use a wire brush to scrub off the rust, then apply a rust converter and finally, paint the area with a rust-resistant metal paint.
- Repairing Damaged Areas: If there are damaged or bent wires, you may be able to repair them using pliers. Larger areas of damage may require replacement of the entire section.
- Lubricate the Gates: To ensure the smooth operation of your chain link fence gates, remember to lubricate the hinges and latches regularly.
#4. Pallet Fences
Pallet fences are a cost-effective option you may want to consider if you have a smaller area to fence in.
Reusing shipping pallets not only reduces waste but also offers a sturdy and reliable solution for your goats and other small animals.
On the downside, constructing a pallet fence requires time and effort, and depending on the pallets’ previous use, they may need to be treated to prevent rot or repaired to make them more sturdy.
Additionally, the height of these fences is on the smaller side, meaning your goats may be able to jump out if they are determined to do so.
Despite the downside, for homesteaders on a tight budget, pallet fences can be an excellent solution.
They require minimal investment and can be free altogether if you find a local business that wants to get rid of their pallets at no cost.
Maintenance Tips:
- Regular Inspection: Check your pallet fence frequently for any signs of weakness or damage. This could include loose nails, broken slats, or signs of rot. Early detection of these issues means you can fix them before they become major problems.
- Treat for Rot: If your pallets weren’t previously treated, you’ll need to do this yourself. Use a wood preservative to protect against rot and increase the longevity of your fence.
- Repair or Replace Damaged Pallets: If you find broken or damaged pallets during your inspection, repair or replace them immediately. Not doing so could lead to a gap in your fence, which your goats could escape through.
- Seal the Wood: To further protect your fence from the elements, consider applying a wood sealant. This will waterproof the wood and help prevent rot and decay.
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Overall, any of the options listed above will work great for fencing goats for pasture.
Just be sure to answer the questions at the start of this article to help you make a choice that will work for your herd and your homestead layout.
Choosing the right fence now will allow you to focus on other projects, knowing you have the best setup for your herd to protect them and allow for daily grazing for years to come.
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