goat barn set up
A good goat barn setup doesn’t just keep your herd dry and safe in all kinds of weather; it also makes your day-to-day chores easier to do, which can be helpful in midlife. This guide will show you how to create a space that works efficiently for both you and your goats allowing you to enjoy raising this fun and entertaining animal.
How to Raise Dairy Goats from home to pasture in an easier way.
When I first started raising goats, we had a tiny shed packed to the brim with supplies for our small herd. It worked—for a while.
But as our herd grew, it became clear we needed to rethink our setup. Over time, we started rearranging things to create a system that worked better, not just for the goats, but for us too.
Here’s the thing: it’s so much easier to plan out an efficient layout before you establish your herd. But even if you’re making changes midstream, taking the time to streamline your setup will make daily chores and goat care a whole lot easier for everyone involved.
Easier Goat Barn Setup
Creating the perfect goat barn doesn’t have to be complicated, but there are a few key things to keep in mind. Think about the size and layout of the barn—does it give your goats enough space to move around comfortably?
The materials you use matter too, so choose ones that are sturdy and safe. And don’t forget to consider how goats naturally behave and what they need to stay happy and healthy when designing your barn.
Be sure to grab the FREE Goat Barn Layout Page below!
1. A General Pen Area
The general pen area is where your goats will spend their nights and, on bad weather days, their days too. I learned early on that having enough space keeps the herd more content. Try to have enough space so your goats are comfortable and roomy enough for them to move around, play, and relax.
Size Needed
For adult dairy goats, a good rule of thumb is at least 10 square feet of space per goat. But if you’re working with larger breeds or thinking about growing your herd down the road, it’s smart to plan for extra room now.
Having a bigger general pen area will give you enough room to section off later if you ever need a kid pen or a sick bay.
Layout
When it comes to setting up your general pen area, the layout is just as important as the size. Goats are social animals, and they need enough room to interact and move around without feeling cramped. A rectangular or square-shaped pen works well because it gives them plenty of space to roam and play freely.
Make sure to keep food and water bowls off to the side, leaving enough space for the entire herd to eat and drink comfortably. Set up a mineral feeding area along one wall, and don’t forget to include raised platforms for your goats to climb on to prevent boredom in the herd.
One of our favorite tricks is using electric spools (the big wooden ones) as platforms—they’re durable, goats love them, and you can often get them cheap or even free from your local electric company.
Goat Barn Supplies
A goats diet mainly consists of hay, some grain, minerals, and water. Be sure to use the right tools to get the job done. Here are a few examples:
2 Pcs Hay Feeder for Goat Nylon Goat Feeder Slow Feed Hay Bag Goats Horse Hay Net with Metal Fastener and Adjustable Strap for Sheep Paddock (Black)
TMEE Hay Feeder Goat 2 in 1 Horse Sheep Hay Rack with Grain Detachable Grain Tray Wall Mount or Hanging Feeder Heavy Duty Galvanized Steel Hay Basket for Cattle Cows Livestock in FarmAnimal Mineral Feeder – Little Giant – 3.5 Quart Mineral Feeder (Item No. MF35BLACK)Little Giant® Plastic Mini Feeder | Fence Feeder | Goat Feeder | Durable & Mountable Bucket for Livestock | Made in USA | 6 Quart | Blue
2. Individual Stalls
If you have the space in your goat barn setup, adding individual stalls to your setup can be a game-changer for raising goats. These stalls offer a safe, comfortable spot for goats to give birth, recover from illness or injury, or provide a way to separate aggressive or sick animals from the rest of the herd.
They’re not only practical but can make it safer for you to care for them in different circumstances.
Size and Setup
A good rule of thumb for stall size is 4 feet by 5 feet per goat, though you may need more room if you’re raising larger breeds. Make sure the dividers between stalls are solid and sturdy—this helps prevent any squabbles or potential injuries.
You’ll also want to include room for a hay feeder, waterer, and mineral station in each stall to keep your animals comfortable and well-fed while they’re in there.
Finally, a door with a lock will keep everyone inside where they belong. There is nothing worse than a loose goat inside of a well-stocked barn.
3. Kid Pens
If you plan on breeding your goats, it’s important to have separate kid pen for young and growing kids. This area can be inside of the general pen area, so the kids can be near the rest of the herd yet separate.
Size Needed
The recommended size is 4 feet by 3 feet per kid. Kid pens also need a secure divider between them and the rest of the herd to prevent any harm from older goats. Kid pens are really important for a few reasons.
- It gives the kids a chance to socialize with each other.
- It provides a safe area for them to play and rest.
- It gives the adults in the herd a break.
4. Buck Section
If you plan on owning a buck or breeding your does with an outside buck, having a separate section for them is an important part of your barn to consider. Bucks can be aggressive during rut, aka breeding season, so keeping them separated from the rest of the herd until it is time to breed is important for their safety and the safety of other goats.
Size Needed
The recommended size for a buck pen is 10 feet by 10 feet, with a sturdy divider to prevent any fighting or escape attempts.
You can also set up a shelter outside for all of your male goats to stay in until breeding season arrives. Overall, bucks are a friendly and kind part of a herd, but during rut you will want to take precautions with both you and your entire herd.
More Goat Care Resources:
5. Feed Room
Having a designated feed room within the barn setup is helpful for keeping the feed for all of your livestock fresh and free from contaminants. This space should be well-ventilated to prevent mold growth and have proper storage containers to keep feed dry and protected from pests.
It’s also helpful to have separate storage areas for different types of feed, such as hay, grains, and supplements.
6. Hay Storage
When fresh pasture isn’t an option because of the weather, having a dedicated space to store hay for daily feeding can be helpful in a barn layout.
If you can, set up your hay storage on the upper level of your barn. This helps keep it dry and safe from any moisture buildup that can ruin a good batch of hay. But if an upper level isn’t an option, don’t worry—you can still use a section of your barn for hay storage like we do.
Just be sure to use pallets to elevate the hay off the ground. This simple step not only keeps the hay dry but also makes it easier to grab what you need when it’s feeding time.
7. Milking Area
If you’re raising dairy goats, setting up a dedicated milking area as part of your barn setup is a real game-changer. Sure, you can milk in an aisle way, but having a separate space makes the process so much easier—and cleaner. A designated milking spot also helps you and your goats feel less rushed and stressed during milking time, which benefits everyone.
Size Needed
The size of your milking area depends on what you want to keep in there. For us, we like to have a milk stand, a bench to sit on, space for our milking supplies, and some feed to keep the goat happy while she’s on the stand. A 4×5 stall works perfectly for this setup.
If you’re working with larger breeds like Nubians or Alpines, you might need a little extra room compared to smaller breeds, but the key is making the space functional and comfortable for you and your goats.
Additional Areas
When it comes to keeping your goats safe and comfortable, there are some additional considerations that you should keep in mind.
Curious about keeping goats but not sure what they need? These tips for Raising Goats for Beginners can help you get started with confidence.
Fresh Water
Goats require access to clean water at all times, so it’s helpful to have a reliable and easily accessible source of water within the barn if possible. If not, you can bring water out with you as we do in our setup.
Similarly, ensure that your goats always have access to fresh hay by regularly checking and refilling hay containers.
Protection
Along with protecting them from harsh weather and pests, you’ll also want to make sure they’re safe from potential predators. After all, a secure barn means peace of mind for both you and your herd.
Have a fenced-in area right outside the barn that allows your goats to head outside for some fresh air even when you do not want them out on pasture. You can use fence panels, pallets, or rolled fencing.
It’s also a good idea to inspect your barn regularly for any gaps, weak spots, or areas where pests might sneak through. Taking these precautions can go a long way in ensuring your goats stay happy, healthy, and safe.
Proper Ventilation & Airflow
Proper ventilation and airflow are important for raising a healthy herd. Good air circulation helps to prevent the buildup of moisture, which can lead to respiratory issues in goats. Make sure that your barn has windows or vents for fresh air to flow throughout, and consider adding fans if necessary.
Clear Aisles and Pathways
Having clear and wide aisles within the barn is essential for easy moving helping to keep everyone safe. This is especially important during times of emergency or when moving larger items, such as bales of hay.
It also makes it easier to clean and maintain the barn on a daily basis. The recommended width for aisles is at least 4 feet, but 6 feet is ideal for larger herds or when using equipment such as wheelbarrows or carts.
Pen Breeding Goats can be fun, but it can also get tricky! Learn how to set up an easy system that works for you and your herd.
Tips for Taking Care of the Barn
Taking care of a goat barn can really help to give your herd a space that is clean and healthy year-round.
Regular Maintenance
Make sure to regularly check and maintain the structural integrity of your barn. This includes ensuring that the roof, walls, and flooring are in good condition, as well as checking for any signs of wear or damage. Repair or replace any damaged areas promptly to prevent further issues.
Keep things clean
Goats are clean animals, but their barn can quickly become dirty and dusty if not routinely maintained.
Create a routine cleaning and disinfecting the barn, removing waste and soiled bedding, and providing fresh bedding for your goats can make this part of raising goats easier.
Clean Feeding routine
The barn is not just a shelter for your goats; it’s also where they will eat and drink. Ensure that the feed and water areas are clean, dry, and easily accessible to your goats.
Use containers that are airtight to store food and minerals. This will help to keep out moisture and pests that can affect the quality of the food.
Regularly Inspecting for Pests
Keeping pests and predators away is key to protecting your goats and keeping them healthy. It’s always smart to make regular inspections part of your routine to spot any issues before they get out of hand.
Look around your barn for any telltale signs of pests like droppings, nests, or chewed wood. Check for small openings or cracks that could serve as entry points for unwanted visitors. It doesn’t take much for a predator or pest to sneak in, so sealing up these gaps with durable materials can make a big difference.
You can also try natural pest repellents, which are a great way to keep bugs at bay without introducing harsh chemicals to your barn.
A well-designed, properly maintained goat barn setup can make a world of difference for your goats’ health and can go a long way to making chore time easier on you.
Start by focusing on the essentials—pens, food storage, and enough room for a healthy herd. Add in other areas for milking or breeding, and round it all out with protection and clean airflow.
Your attention to detail doesn’t just benefit your goats; it makes caring for them easier on you as well.
More Goat Care Resources:
Goat Barn Setup: Step-by-Step Guide
Not sure how to set up your goat barn? From individual stalls to proper ventilation, this guide covers it all.
Materials
- Screwdriver and screws
- Cordless drill
- Saw (hand saw or power saw)
- Wire cutters
- Shovel
- Rake
- Wheelbarrow or utility cart (makes it easier to transport hay, feed, and bedding)
- Barn broom and dustpan
- Hose and water buckets
Tools
- Lumber (for constructing stalls, gates, and platforms)
- Concrete or gravel
- Fencing materials (wood panels, wire mesh, or livestock fencing)
- Gate latches and hinges
- Barn paint or sealant
- Roofing material (metal sheets or shingles)
- Hay racks and feeders
- Water troughs or automatic waterers
- Mineral and grain feeders
- Bedding material (straw, wood shavings, or rubber mats)
- Ventilation fans or vents (Improves airflow and prevents moisture buildup)
- Storage bins for feed and supplements
Instructions
- The general pen area should be spacious enough for goats to move, rest, and play comfortably.
- Set up individual stalls to provide a safe space for kidding, sick animals, or separating aggressive goats.
- A kid pen is essential for young goats to play and rest safely while staying near the herd.
- Bucks need a separate space, especially during breeding season when they can become aggressive. A buck pen with strong fencing prevents fighting and escape attempts.
- A feed room helps keep hay, grain, and supplements fresh and protected from pests.
- Hay storage is crucial for when pasture isn’t available, especially in bad weather.
- A milking area makes milking dairy goats easier, cleaner, and more efficient.
- Goats need constant access to fresh water to stay healthy and hydrated. If a built-in water source isn’t available, fresh water should be brought in daily.
- Make sure that there is a fenced-in outdoor space that allows goats to roam safely.
- Proper ventilation helps prevent respiratory issues and keeps the barn fresh. Windows, vents, or fans improve airflow and reduce moisture buildup.
- Clear aisles and pathways make it easier to move around and care for your goats.
Notes
- Even if you have fencing, check for weak spots or gaps where predators might sneak in. If your area has a lot of threats, consider adding livestock guard dogs.
- Inspect your barn for any nails, screws, or broken fencing that could injure your goats. They are curious creatures and will rub or chew on just about anything.
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