Best Fence for Goats – 2025 Reviews

Choosing between electric and wire fences depends on your goats’ behavior and your management style. Electric netting is fantastic for rotational grazing—it’s portable, easy to set up, and teaches goats to respect boundaries with a mild shock. I’ve found it especially useful for training young goats or containing herds in temporary areas.

On the other hand, woven wire fences offer permanent security and are less maintenance-intensive once installed. They’re better for goats that are persistent chewers or climbers, as the physical barrier is more imposing. Consider your long-term needs; if you move pastures often, electric is the way to go, but for a fixed enclosure, wire provides reliable protection.

When evaluating fences, focus on durability, height, and ease of installation. Durability is crucial—goats will test fences constantly, so look for materials like hot-dip galvanized steel or reinforced PE that resist rust and wear. Height matters too; most goats need at least 4 feet, but jumpers might require 5 feet or more to prevent escapes.

Ease of installation can save you time and frustration. Pre-assembled options like electric netting with built-in posts are ideal for quick setups, while wire fences should have features like gradient mesh to prevent small animals from slipping through. Don’t forget portability if you plan to rotate grazing areas—lightweight designs make moving the fence a breeze.

Proper installation is key to keeping your goats contained. Start by clearing the area of debris and ensuring the ground is level to avoid gaps. For electric fences, use a reliable energizer (sold separately) and test the charge regularly—goats are quick to learn if the fence isn’t active.

When installing wire fences, stake them securely and tension the wires to prevent sagging. I always recommend adding a strand of electric wire on top for extra deterrence, as goats are less likely to challenge a combined barrier. Take your time during setup; a well-installed fence pays off in reduced escape attempts.

Maintaining your goat fence ensures it lasts for years. Regular inspections are essential—check for broken wires, loose posts, or vegetation that could short out electric fences. For electric netting, clean the conductors periodically to maintain a strong charge, and replace any damaged sections promptly.

Wire fences may need occasional tightening or rust treatment, especially in humid climates. Investing in a quality repair kit can save you money in the long run. Remember, proactive maintenance not only extends the fence’s life but also keeps your goats safer by addressing issues before they become problems.

Fencing for goats doesn’t have to break the bank, but you get what you pay for. Budget options like woven wire fences can be effective if you’re covering a large area, but they might require more frequent repairs. Mid-range electric netting often offers the best balance of cost and features, providing portability and reliability without a premium price tag.

When budgeting, consider the total cost of ownership—including installation tools, energizers for electric fences, and future maintenance. Sometimes, spending a bit more upfront on a durable product saves you money and hassle down the road. Look for value in features that match your specific needs, rather than just the lowest price.

Most goats require a fence at least 4 feet high to prevent jumping, but athletic breeds or those known for climbing might need 5 feet or more. If you have kids or smaller goats, consider fences with tighter mesh at the bottom to avoid escapes. Electric fences can be slightly shorter if properly charged, as the psychological barrier often deters jumping attempts.

When used correctly, electric fences are safe for goats and deliver a brief, startling shock rather than causing injury. The key is to use an energizer with appropriate output (usually 0.5 joules for netting) and ensure the fence is properly grounded. I always introduce goats to electric fencing gradually, so they learn to respect it without undue stress.

For chewers, woven wire fences with thick, galvanized steel are your best bet, as they withstand gnawing better than plastic or lightweight materials. Avoid fences with loose wires or weak points, and consider adding an electric wire on top for extra deterrence. Regular monitoring helps catch any chewing behavior early before it compromises the fence.

Maintenance involves regular testing of the charge, clearing vegetation that could touch the wires (causing shorts), and inspecting for damage after storms or animal interactions. Keep the conductors clean and free of debris, and replace any broken posts or sections promptly. A well-maintained electric fence is more effective and safer for your goats.

Absolutely—portable fences are ideal for rotational grazing, which improves pasture health and reduces parasite load. Electric netting is particularly valuable because it’s easy to move and set up, allowing you to rotate grazing areas frequently. I’ve found that goats adapt well to portable systems, and the flexibility makes management much easier.