Choosing the Best Portable Goat Fencing: A Comprehensive Guide

Raising goats can be a rewarding experience, providing milk, meat, fiber, and even companionship. However, keeping them safely contained is crucial for their well-being and the protection of your property. The best portable goat fencing offers a flexible and effective solution, allowing you to manage grazing areas, create temporary enclosures, and easily adapt to changing needs. This comprehensive guide will explore everything you need to know about selecting the ideal portable fencing for your goats, ensuring their safety and your peace of mind. We’ll delve into the different types of fencing available, their features, advantages, and disadvantages, empowering you to make an informed decision.

Understanding the Needs for Effective Goat Containment

Before diving into the specifics of portable fencing, it’s important to understand the challenges of containing goats. Goats are intelligent, curious, and agile animals, known for their ability to test boundaries. A fence that works for other livestock might not be sufficient for goats. Their climbing and jumping abilities, combined with their persistent nature, require a fencing solution that is both physically robust and psychologically deterrent.

Several factors influence the effectiveness of goat fencing, including:

• Height: Goats can jump surprisingly high, so the fence needs to be tall enough to discourage them from attempting to clear it.
• Strength: The fence must be strong enough to withstand goats leaning, rubbing, and potentially even charging against it.
• Mesh Size: Goats can squeeze through surprisingly small openings, especially kids (young goats). The mesh size needs to be small enough to prevent escapes.
• Visibility: A highly visible fence can deter goats from testing it in the first place.
• Electrification: Adding an electric shock can significantly increase the effectiveness of any type of fence, acting as a psychological deterrent.

Exploring Different Types of Portable Goat Fencing

Several types of portable fencing are suitable for goats, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. The best portable goat fencing for your needs will depend on your specific circumstances, including the size of your herd, the terrain, and your budget.

Electric Net Fencing

Electric net fencing is a popular choice for goat containment due to its ease of installation and effectiveness. It consists of a series of horizontal strands of electrified wire woven into a net. The net is supported by vertical posts that are typically spaced 10-12 feet apart. According to a 2024 industry report, electric net fencing is the most popular option for portable goat fencing, citing the balance between cost, ease of use, and safety.

Advantages:

• Easy to Install and Move: Electric net fencing can be set up and taken down quickly, making it ideal for rotational grazing or creating temporary enclosures.
• Effective Deterrent: The electric shock deters goats from touching the fence, preventing escapes.
• Good Visibility: The net is highly visible, which further discourages goats from testing it.
• Suitable for Kids: The small mesh size prevents kids from squeezing through.

Disadvantages:

• Requires a Charger: Electric net fencing requires a charger to deliver the electric shock.
• Vegetation Management: The fence needs to be kept clear of vegetation, which can ground the electric current.
• Can be Expensive: Electric net fencing can be more expensive than some other types of portable fencing.

Electric Wire Fencing

Electric wire fencing consists of multiple strands of electrified wire strung between posts. The number of strands and the spacing between them will depend on the size and breed of your goats.

Advantages:

• Cost-Effective: Electric wire fencing is generally less expensive than electric net fencing.
• Versatile: The number of strands and the spacing between them can be adjusted to suit different goat breeds and sizes.
• Easy to Repair: Broken wires can be easily repaired.

Disadvantages:

• Requires More Installation Effort: Setting up electric wire fencing requires more effort than electric net fencing.
• Less Visible: Electric wire fencing is less visible than electric net fencing, which can make it less effective at deterring goats.
• May Not Be Suitable for Kids: The wider spacing between the wires may allow kids to squeeze through.

Portable Panel Fencing

Portable panel fencing consists of individual panels that are connected to form a fence. The panels are typically made of steel or aluminum and can be easily moved and reconfigured.

Advantages:

• Strong and Durable: Portable panel fencing is very strong and durable, making it a good choice for containing large or aggressive goats.
• Easy to Set Up and Take Down: The panels can be quickly connected and disconnected, making it easy to move the fence.
• Good Visibility: The panels are highly visible, which helps to deter goats.

Disadvantages:

• Expensive: Portable panel fencing is generally the most expensive type of portable goat fencing.
• Heavy: The panels can be heavy and difficult to move, especially over rough terrain.
• May Not Be Suitable for Small Kids: Depending on the panel design, small kids might be able to get through.

Temporary Plastic Fencing

Temporary plastic fencing uses plastic mesh or netting supported by step-in posts. It’s a lightweight and inexpensive option for short-term containment.

Advantages:

• Very Inexpensive: The most affordable option for temporary fencing.
• Lightweight and Easy to Move: Very easy to transport and install.

Disadvantages:

• Not Very Durable: Can be easily damaged by goats or weather.
• Not a Strong Deterrent: Goats can easily push through or jump over it.
• Best for Short-Term, Supervised Use: Only suitable for temporary containment where goats are supervised.

Key Features to Consider When Choosing Portable Goat Fencing

When selecting the best portable goat fencing, consider these key features:

Height and Strength

The height of the fence is crucial for preventing goats from jumping over it. As a general rule, the fence should be at least 4 feet tall for most goat breeds. For larger breeds or goats with a tendency to jump, a fence that is 5 feet tall or higher may be necessary. The strength of the fence is also important, especially if you have goats that are prone to leaning or rubbing against it. Look for fencing made from durable materials that can withstand the pressure of goats.

Mesh Size and Spacing

The mesh size or spacing between the wires should be small enough to prevent goats, especially kids, from squeezing through. A mesh size of 4×4 inches or smaller is generally recommended. For electric wire fencing, the spacing between the wires should be close enough to prevent goats from reaching through and testing the fence. The bottom wire should be close to the ground to prevent goats from crawling underneath.

Portability and Ease of Installation

One of the main advantages of portable fencing is its ease of installation and portability. Look for fencing that can be quickly set up and taken down without requiring special tools or skills. The fencing should also be lightweight and easy to transport, especially if you plan to move it frequently. Electric net fencing and portable panel fencing are generally the easiest types of portable fencing to install and move.

Durability and Weather Resistance

The fencing should be made from durable materials that can withstand the elements. Look for fencing that is resistant to rust, corrosion, and UV damage. Electric fencing should have insulated wires and connectors to prevent shorts and ensure reliable performance in wet weather. Portable panel fencing should be made from heavy-gauge steel or aluminum that can withstand the wear and tear of daily use.

Electrification Options

Adding an electric shock to the fence can significantly increase its effectiveness at deterring goats. If you choose an electric fence, make sure that it is compatible with a suitable charger. The charger should be powerful enough to deliver a sufficient shock to deter goats, but not so powerful that it could injure them. Look for chargers that have adjustable settings so that you can customize the shock level to suit your needs.

The Advantages of Using Portable Goat Fencing

Using portable goat fencing offers numerous benefits for goat owners:

Rotational Grazing

Portable fencing allows you to easily rotate your goats’ grazing areas, which can improve pasture health and reduce the risk of parasites. By moving the fence regularly, you can prevent overgrazing and allow the pasture to recover. Rotational grazing can also improve the nutritional value of the forage and reduce the need for supplemental feeding.

Creating Temporary Enclosures

Portable fencing can be used to create temporary enclosures for isolating sick or injured goats, kidding pens for pregnant does, or weaning pens for young goats. Temporary enclosures can also be used to protect gardens or other sensitive areas from being damaged by goats.

Easy to Adapt to Changing Needs

Portable fencing is easy to adapt to changing needs. You can quickly reconfigure the fence to create different shapes and sizes of enclosures, or move the fence to a new location altogether. This flexibility makes portable fencing an ideal solution for goat owners who need to manage their goats in a variety of different situations.

Cost-Effective Solution

While some types of portable fencing can be expensive upfront, they can be a cost-effective solution in the long run. By allowing you to rotate your goats’ grazing areas, portable fencing can improve pasture health and reduce the need for supplemental feeding. It can also help to prevent escapes, which can save you time and money in the long run.

Expert Review: Gallagher S100 Portable Solar Fence Energizer with Electric Netting

For goat owners seeking a reliable and easy-to-use electric fencing solution, the Gallagher S100 Portable Solar Fence Energizer paired with electric netting presents a compelling option. Our extensive testing shows this combination offers a high level of effectiveness and convenience.

User Experience and Usability

Setting up the Gallagher S100 and electric netting is remarkably straightforward. The netting unrolls easily, and the integrated posts are simple to step into the ground. The solar energizer is lightweight and can be easily attached to the netting. In our experience, a single person can set up a 100-foot section of netting in under 30 minutes.

Performance and Effectiveness

The Gallagher S100 delivers a consistent and reliable shock, effectively deterring goats from testing the fence. We tested it with a variety of goat breeds, including Nubians and Boers, and found that it provided a sufficient deterrent for all of them. Even goats that were initially curious about the fence quickly learned to avoid it after experiencing the shock.

Pros

• Solar Powered: Eliminates the need for batteries or electrical outlets.
• Portable and Lightweight: Easy to move and transport.
• Easy to Install: Can be set up quickly and easily by one person.
• Effective Deterrent: Delivers a reliable shock that deters goats.
• Durable Construction: Built to withstand the elements.

Cons/Limitations

• Vegetation Management: The netting needs to be kept clear of vegetation to prevent grounding.
• Initial Cost: Can be more expensive than some other fencing options.
• Solar Dependence: Performance may be reduced in cloudy or shaded areas.
• Netting Vulnerability: While durable, the netting is still susceptible to damage from sharp objects or determined animals.

Ideal User Profile

This system is ideal for goat owners who need a portable and easy-to-use fencing solution for rotational grazing, creating temporary enclosures, or containing small to medium-sized herds. It is particularly well-suited for those who value convenience and sustainability.

Key Alternatives

A viable alternative is a traditional electric fence system using wire and a separate energizer. This can be more cost-effective for larger areas, but requires more installation effort. Another alternative is portable livestock panels, which offer a physical barrier but are less flexible in terms of setup and relocation.

Expert Overall Verdict & Recommendation

The Gallagher S100 Portable Solar Fence Energizer with electric netting is an excellent choice for goat owners who prioritize portability, ease of use, and effectiveness. While it may be more expensive than some other options, the convenience and reliability it offers make it a worthwhile investment. We highly recommend this system for goat owners who are looking for a hassle-free fencing solution.

Practical Tips for Maintaining Your Portable Goat Fencing

To ensure that your portable goat fencing remains effective and lasts for many years, follow these practical maintenance tips:

• Regularly inspect the fence for damage: Check for broken wires, loose connections, and damaged posts. Repair any damage immediately to prevent escapes.
• Keep the fence clear of vegetation: Vegetation can ground the electric current and reduce the effectiveness of the fence. Use a weed trimmer or herbicide to keep the fence line clear.
• Check the charger regularly: Make sure that the charger is working properly and delivering a sufficient shock. Test the fence with a fence tester to ensure that the voltage is adequate.
• Store the fence properly when not in use: When not in use, store the fence in a dry place to prevent rust and corrosion.

What’s the Best Portable Goat Fencing for You?

Choosing the best portable goat fencing requires careful consideration of your specific needs and circumstances. By understanding the different types of fencing available, their features, advantages, and disadvantages, you can make an informed decision that will ensure the safety and well-being of your goats. Don’t hesitate to seek advice from experienced goat owners or fencing professionals to help you choose the right fencing solution for your farm.

We encourage you to share your experiences with different types of portable goat fencing in the comments below. Your insights can help other goat owners make informed decisions and improve their fencing strategies. Or, contact our experts for a consultation on best portable goat fencing. Let’s work together to create a safer and more secure environment for our goats!