How to Become a Dairy Goat Farmer

Start small. If you get two female kids 8 to 10 weeks old, they'll be young enough to be comfortable with you, and old enough to be weaned.

Build a goat-proof enclosure. Goats are escape artists, so if you have a garden or landscaping that you'd like to keep intact, don't skimp on the fence. Include a shelter where your does can stay dry.

Trim the goats' hooves when necessary --- about every 6 to 8 weeks is a good rule of thumb. A hoof trimmer makes this job much easier. Have a veterinarian show you the proper procedure and give you pointers for this important procedure.

Build a milking stand. Plans for milking stands can be found in books on raising dairy goats, which are available in many libraries. The milking stand should include a head restrainer and a feed stand. If you trim your goats' hooves while they're on the stand, it will get them used to it, and make your life a little easier, too.

Get the rest of your milking supplies: a stainless steel seamless milking bucket, a strainer, a thermometer and a large stainless steel pot for collecting, cleaning, and pasteurizing the milk; and teat sterilizing solution and a moisturizing lotion for post-milking to care for your goats' udders.

Milk your does on a regular schedule. Twice a day is a good plan, but, if you're happy with lower milk production, you can transition down to once a day. Giving your does a two-month dry period is best for their health.