Spend time around goats and you’ll notice something peculiar: some have impressive, curved horns while others are completely hornless. This difference sparks curiosity among new goat owners. Do all goats have horns? Is it related to their breed or sex, or is there more to it? At Merry Meadows Farm, where...
Goat Terminology 101: Essential Goat Terms for New Owners
If you’re new to raising goats, it might feel like you’ve wandered into a whole new language. Don’t worry—you’re not alone! At Merry Meadows Farm, we’ve helped many new goat owners learn the ropes, and one of the most common early questions we get is: “What does that word mean?” This...
Buck or Wether? Choosing the Right Male Goat for Your Herd
If you’re just starting your goatkeeping journey, one of the most important decisions you’ll face is which kind of male goat to bring into your herd. It might seem like a simple choice—after all, a goat is a goat, right?—but in reality, the decision between a buck and a wether will shape everything from...
Nigerian Dwarf Goats: A Small Goat with Big Milk Potential
Stepping through the gates at Merry Meadows each morning, there’s a sense of excitement in the air whenever our Nigerian Dwarf goats are nearby. Their petite frames and spirited personalities immediately catch the eye, proving that size isn’t everything when it comes to raising dairy goats. These little charmers carry...
Nubian Goats: Are They Right for You?
The moment you see a Nubian goat, it’s hard not to be captivated by their long ears and regal profiles. Their easygoing nature often catches visitors by surprise, blending a social temperament with an endearing curiosity. These goats have a way of connecting with both seasoned farmers and those just...
Goats For Land Clearing
At Merry Meadows Farm, we’ve seen firsthand the incredible power of goats to clear overgrown brush, restore land, and reduce feed costs in a sustainable way. Goats are natural browsers, making them perfect for tackling invasive weeds, shrubs, and other vegetation that can take over pastures and properties. Not only...
Do Goats Recognize Their Owners?
Many people are surprised to learn that goats, often perceived as just livestock, are intelligent animals with complex social behaviors. One of the most fascinating aspects of goat behavior is their ability to recognize people, particularly their owners. This raises the question: do goats really recognize and remember the people...
Goat Nutrition 101: What Your Goats Need to Stay Healthy
Caring for goats involves more than just providing a place to graze. Proper goat nutrition is essential for their health, productivity, and overall happiness. Understanding what goats need to thrive will help you create a feeding plan that supports their unique dietary requirements and prevents common health issues related to...
Top 5 Goat Breeds for New Farmers
Welcome to Merry Meadows Farm! Raising goats is one of the most rewarding experiences for any new farmer. Whether you're looking for fresh milk, a sustainable source of meat, or simply friendly companions to brighten your day, goats are an excellent addition to any farm. However, choosing the right goat...
A Complete Guide to Kidding Season
Kidding season is one of the most exciting times on a goat farm. At Merry Meadows, we love welcoming new kids into the world and watching our herd grow. However, it’s also a season that requires careful planning, attention to detail, and lots of love to ensure the safety and...