Pygmy goats may be small, but they’re expert escape artists. They jump, climb, squeeze through tiny gaps, and push against weak fencing. If you don’t have the right fence, you’ll spend more time chasing your goats than caring for them!
So, what’s the best fence for pygmy goats? In this guide, we’ll cover:
✔ The best types of fencing for pygmy goats
✔ Electric vs. non-electric options
✔ How to build an escape-proof fence
What to Look for in a Pygmy Goat Fence
A good pygmy goat fence must be:
✔ At least 4 feet tall – Pygmies may be small, but they can jump!
✔ Tightly spaced – No more than 4 inches between wires to prevent squeezing through.
✔ Durable – Strong enough to handle rubbing and pushing.
✔ Safe – No sharp edges that could injure the goats.
Best Fencing Materials for Pygmy Goats
🛑 Avoid flimsy wire or wooden fencing with gaps—pygmy goats WILL find a way out!
Best Fencing Options for Pygmy Goats
1. 2” x 4” Woven Wire Fence – Best Overall
✔ Height: 48 inches (4 feet)
✔ Wire Spacing: 2” x 4” mesh
✔ Durability: Extremely strong
🔹 Why It’s Great:
- Prevents climbing & squeezing through.
- Safe for pygmy goats—no sharp edges.
- Strong enough to withstand headbutting & pushing.
🔹 Best For: Permanent fencing around pastures & goat enclosures.
2. Electric Netting – Best Portable Option
✔ Height: 35–42 inches
✔ Wire Spacing: Tight mesh
✔ Power Source: Solar, battery, or AC
🔹 Why It’s Great:
- Easy to set up & move (great for rotational grazing).
- Deters predators like coyotes & stray dogs.
- Keeps goats contained while allowing pasture movement.
🔹 Best For: Rotational grazing & temporary enclosures.
🔹 Top Pick: Premier 1 ElectroNet 9/35/12
3. Welded Wire Fence – Best Budget Option
✔ Height: 48 inches (4 feet)
✔ Wire Spacing: 2” x 4” mesh
✔ Durability: Medium
🔹 Why It’s Great:
- Affordable and easy to install.
- Works well with wood or metal posts.
- Not as strong as woven wire but good for small farms.
🔹 Best For: Backyard goat owners & budget-conscious farms.
4. 5-Strand Electric Fence – Best for Large Farms
✔ Height: 42 inches
✔ Wire Type: Polywire or high-tensile wire
✔ Power Needed: Minimum 5,000 volts
🔹 Why It’s Great:
- Keeps goats in and predators out.
- Works well for large pastures.
- Affordable compared to woven wire.
🔹 Best For: Large homesteads & rotational grazing systems.
🔹 Top Pick: Gallagher S100 Solar Fence Charger (for off-grid farms).
How to Build an Escape-Proof Pygmy Goat Fence
✅ Step 1: Choose the Right Fence Type – Woven wire for permanent fencing, electric netting for portable setups.
✅ Step 2: Install Strong Fence Posts – Use wooden, metal T-posts, or step-in posts for stability.
✅ Step 3: Ensure Proper Fence Height – 4 feet minimum to prevent jumping.
✅ Step 4: Secure the Bottom of the Fence – Bury the bottom 6 inches deep or attach a board to stop digging.
✅ Step 5: Train Your Goats – Let them learn the electric fence boundary safely.
🔹 Pro Tip: Keep trees & climbable objects away from the fence to prevent goats from jumping over.
Electric vs. Non-Electric Fencing for Pygmy Goats
| Feature | Electric Fence | Woven/Welded Wire Fence |
|---|---|---|
| Escape Prevention | ✅ Excellent | ✅ Excellent |
| Predator Protection | ✅ High | ❌ Moderate |
| Cost | 💰 More affordable | 💰 More expensive |
| Setup Time | ⚡ Fast | 🏗️ Slower but long-lasting |
| Best For | Large farms, portable fencing | Permanent enclosures, small pastures |
🔹 For backyard goats? Choose woven wire fencing.
🔹 For large farms? Electric fencing is cost-effective and deters predators.
Final Thoughts: Choosing the Best Fence for Pygmy Goats
A secure fence is the key to keeping your pygmy goats safe and contained.
Quick Recap:
✔ Best Permanent Fence? Woven Wire Fence (2” x 4” mesh)
✔ Best Portable Fence? Premier 1 Electric Netting
✔ Best Budget Option? Welded Wire Fence
✔ Best for Large Pastures? 5-Strand Electric Fence
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