Socializing Kids

How You Socialize Kids at your Homestead:

Top Contributor at Nigerian Dwarf Dairy Goats on the Homestead Facebook Group:

I pick them(kids) up frequently. I'm there for every birth and start from that moment on until they leave my farm to go to their new homes. I feel that very early connection is really helpful. Every morning part of my routine is to be sure to pick up every kid and hold them even if just a few seconds. I repeat this every time I go into the barn...even when I have 50+ kids. Sometimes I sit in the barn and just let them climb on me...never chasing. When they start eating grain I go down the line and pet them as they eat and if there is one who is a bit more skittish, I take that opportunity to pick them up and hand feed them. I also have a retired friend who loves my goats who comes over frequently to hold them. If children come over I have a firm rule that teaches them to move slowly and not chase the kids. They sit on a bale and let the kids come to them. I also introduce them to taking a bottle early so I can bottle feed in the morning after separating the kids at night so I can start milking before the kids are weaned."

Thank you, Lynn, and everyone who is responding and helping newer goat owners by relating what you are doing with your kids.

AppleJo Farms is dedicated to breeding, nurturing and placing Registered Nigerian Dwarf Dairy Goats with Farms where they will flourish!

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The Gateway to the Lake of the Ozarks: Eldon, Missouri