Sheep and goats are notorious escape artists. They squeeze through small gaps, push against weak fences, and even climb if given the chance. Plus, they attract predators like coyotes, foxes, and stray dogs.
So, what’s the best fence for sheep and goats? In this guide, we’ll cover:
✔ The best types of fencing for mixed herds
✔ Electric vs. non-electric options
✔ How to build an escape-proof and predator-proof fence
What to Look for in a Sheep & Goat Fence
✔ Minimum Height: 48 inches – Prevents goats from jumping out.
✔ Tight Wire Spacing (4 inches or less) – Stops sheep and young goats from squeezing through.
✔ Strong & Durable – Withstands rubbing, climbing, and headbutting.
✔ Predator-Resistant – Stops coyotes, dogs, and foxes from getting in.
🛑 Avoid traditional livestock fencing (barbed wire, cattle panels, or split rail fencing)—they won’t contain sheep and goats properly!
Best Fencing Options for Sheep & Goats
1. 4” x 4” Woven Wire Fence – Best Overall
✔ Height: 48 inches
✔ Wire Spacing: 4” x 4” mesh
✔ Durability: Extremely strong
🔹 Why It’s Great:
- Prevents climbing & squeezing through.
- Safe for sheep and goats—no sharp edges.
- Works well on hilly or uneven terrain.
🔹 Best For: Permanent fencing around pastures & enclosures.
🔹 Top Pick: Red Brand Goat & Sheep Fence (48” height)
2. Electric Netting – Best for Rotational Grazing
✔ Height: 35–42 inches
✔ Wire Spacing: Small mesh openings
✔ Power Needed: Solar, AC, or battery-powered charger
🔹 Why It’s Great:
- Quick to set up and move (perfect for rotational grazing).
- Prevents climbing and keeps out predators.
- Works well for both sheep and goats.
🔹 Best For: Portable fencing & temporary enclosures.
🔹 Top Pick: Premier 1 ElectroNet 9/35/12
3. High-Tensile Electric Fence – Best for Large Farms
✔ Height: 42–48 inches
✔ Wire Type: 5–6 strands of high-tensile wire
✔ Power Needed: 5,000–7,000 volts
🔹 Why It’s Great:
- Effective for large pastures and keeps out predators.
- More affordable than woven wire.
- Can be combined with woven wire for extra security.
🔹 Best For: Large farms & predator control.
🔹 Top Pick: Gallagher S400 Solar Fence Charger (for off-grid farms).
4. Welded Wire Fence – Best Budget Option
✔ Height: 48 inches
✔ Wire Spacing: 2” x 4” mesh
🔹 Why It’s Great:
- Affordable and easy to install.
- Works well with wooden or metal posts.
- Not as strong as woven wire, but great for small farms.
🔹 Best For: Backyard enclosures & budget-conscious farmers.
How to Build an Escape-Proof & Predator-Proof Fence
✅ Step 1: Choose the Right Fence Type – Woven wire for permanent fencing, electric netting for portable areas.
✅ Step 2: Use Sturdy Fence Posts – Wooden, metal T-posts, or step-in posts work best.
✅ Step 3: Ensure Proper Fence Height – At least 48 inches to prevent jumping.
✅ Step 4: Secure the Bottom to the Ground – Bury the fence 6 inches deep or add a wooden board to block gaps.
✅ Step 5: Train Your Sheep & Goats – Let them see and test the electric fence under supervision.
🔹 Pro Tip: Keep trees & climbable objects away from the fence to prevent goats from jumping over.
Electric vs. Non-Electric Fencing for Sheep & Goats
| Feature | Electric Fence | Woven Wire Fence |
|---|---|---|
| Best For | Large pastures, predator protection | Permanent enclosures, small pastures |
| Escape Prevention | ✅ High | ✅ High |
| Predator Protection | ✅ Excellent | ❌ Moderate |
| Cost | 💰 More affordable | 💰 More expensive |
| Ease of Installation | ✅ Easier | ❌ Harder |
🔹 For backyard flocks? Choose woven wire fencing.
🔹 For large farms? Electric fencing is cost-effective and deters predators.
Common Fencing Problems & How to Fix Them
🚧 Fence Sags on Hills?
✔ Use closer post spacing (6–8 feet apart).
✔ Tension wires properly on high-tensile fences.
🚧 Gaps Under the Fence?
✔ Bury the bottom 6 inches or use a wooden board to close gaps.
✔ Add an extra low strand of electric wire to stop digging.
🚧 Fence Posts Leaning on Slopes?
✔ Bury corner posts deeper (3–4 feet) and use concrete for stability.
✔ Set posts at an angle to match the slope.
Final Thoughts: Choosing the Best Fence for Sheep & Goats
Fencing is an investment in your animals’ safety—whether you’re keeping sheep and goats in or predators out, choosing the right fencing solution is critical.
Quick Recap:
✔ Best Permanent Fence? 4” x 4” Woven Wire Fence (48” tall)
✔ Best Portable Fence? Premier 1 Electric Netting
✔ Best for Large Pastures? High-Tensile Electric Fence
✔ Best Budget Option? Welded Wire Fence
Leave a Reply