Preparedness
Choosing the Perfect Dairy Animal for Your Homestead
When considering adding dairy animals to your homestead, the decision often boils down to choosing between goats and cows. While both animals can provide fresh milk and dairy products, they come with distinct advantages and challenges that are worth considering.
For many, the initial cost is a significant factor. “Purchasing costs for goats are much lower than cows.” A single heifer can be quite expensive, whereas you can typically purchase two to three goats for the same price. Goats are herd animals and thrive in groups, so it’s advisable to keep at least two or three together. Meanwhile, cows can manage alone but do better with company, such as a beef steer that can be raised alongside them.
Housing and fencing for these animals also differ significantly. Goats require sturdy fencing, with “2”x4″ no-climb horse fence being the gold standard,” and they need shelter from the rain. Cows, on the other hand, have simpler fencing needs, often just a “good electric fence or even a 3 strand barbed wire fence.” They may not even require housing, although a shelter is beneficial for feeding and milking in inclement weather.
Handling is another consideration. Goats, being smaller, are generally easier to manage than cows. “Goats are easier to handle and don’t require a squeeze chute to safely handle or AI them.” This makes them a more suitable choice for novices or those without prior experience handling large livestock. Cows, even smaller breeds like the Irish Dexter, can be intimidating due to their size and strength.
Transporting these animals also varies in complexity. Goats, especially smaller breeds like the Nigerian Dwarf, can often be transported in large dog kennels or even in the back of a van with a wire panel. In contrast, transporting cows usually requires a horse or stock trailer due to their size. “Transporting goats is typically easier and less expensive.”
Reproduction and breeding present distinct challenges for both animals. While artificial insemination (AI) is common for both, “AI is not a cheaper or necessarily easier option to live cover, but it is a whole lot safer when it comes to dealing with bulls.” Keeping a bull can be dangerous, whereas goat bucks, despite their strong odor during rut, pose less risk.
Milk production is another critical factor. Some heritage cattle breeds produce “a gallon or two a day,” comparable to high-yielding goat breeds. Nigerian Dwarf goats, for instance, can provide up to a half-gallon daily. This amount may seem small until you realize the cumulative weekly yield. Goat milk is also known for being easier to digest for some people and is considered slightly healthier than cow’s milk.
Milking practices differ between the two animals. Cows can be challenging to milk due to their size and strength, often requiring significant hand and forearm strength. “Cows can and will kick you, and they are deadly accurate with their tails.” Goats, on the other hand, tend to have better manners during milking, and their smaller size makes them less intimidating.
Ultimately, the choice between goats and cows for your homestead depends on your specific needs, resources, and personal preferences. Each has its own unique set of benefits and drawbacks, making it essential to weigh these factors carefully before making a decision.
Let us know what you think, please share your thoughts in the comments below.