If you are a homesteader looking to have a source of your own dairy, you may have asked yourself which is better: goat milk? Or cow milk? Which animal is better for me?

Although both are great sources of fresh, nutritious milk, each kind of animal requires different feeding, maintenance, upkeep, and care. Here are some of the differences as you consider which dairy animal will be the best fit for your homestead.

Space & Feeding Requirements

A big difference between cows and goats is the amount of space that they need. While a single full grown dairy cow needs at least an acre of land, a small herd of goats need less for roaming and grazing.

Additionally, goats are able to eat a wider variety of plants and weeds – some even which cows don’t touch – which makes them very beneficial for clearing overgrown areas. If you need a large area of property cleared, then goats are a great choice for this. Goats also require less water per day than cows, which can be beneficial in areas of drought.

Milk Production & Nutritional Value

While both kinds – cow milk and goat milk – offer tasty and nutritional benefits, you may choose one over the other based on your unique needs and priorities. Cow’s milk is the most popular kind, providing options for a wide variety of products. Cows also produce rather large quantities of milk per day – up to 10 gallons per day from even one cow.

Goats, on the other hand, produce a very rich and creamy milk that is low in lactose, so it’s easier to digest for those with dairy sensitivities. It is also naturally homogenized, meaning the cream doesn’t separate, like in cow milk. A factor to consider, though, is that goats only produce between 1-2 gallons per day per goat. So in order to make up for the quantity, you will need more goats.

Maintenance & Upkeep

While weighing the differences between goats and cows, you will need to consider the amount of maintenance and upkeep you are willing to commit to. Though cows tend to have gentler demeanors, they will need stronger fencing, larger shelters, greater amounts of feed, more manure management, and hoof maintenance.

Goats, though smaller, love to climb and are quite active. This means that you will need to be intentional about the strength and design of their enclosure. They will need well-built enclosures to ensure they don’t escape. Goats also tend to get parasites more easily and will require regular hoof trimming.

Cost Considerations

If budget is a concern for you, you will need to consider what you are willing to pay upfront vs long-term. Cows will require a higher upfront cost, typically costing from about $1,500 to $3,000 for a single dairy cow. Goats are cheaper, as a single dairy goat costs between $200 to $500. However, the cost of feed, maintenance, shelter, and veterinary care for both can add up.

If you are looking into investing in the animals based on their dairy production, you will also need to think about profit and dairy use. If you want the animal just for personal dairy use, then goats might be a cheaper option. However, if you are looking to sell dairy products, a cow may be a better investment because of its ability to produce larger quantities.

Watering Your Herd

Regardless of the kind of animal you select, you will need to ensure that they have access to clean, fresh water at all times. Cows can drink up to 30 gallons of water a day, while a single goat may only drink 2-4 gallons a day. Though goats require less water, they tend to knock over water troughs or step in the container, contaminating the water and requiring more regular upkeep.

Investing in a high quality waterer for livestock, such as the automated options from Bar-Bar-A, can help ensure that both goats and cows stay well-hydrated. These automatic waterers use technology to prevent freezing in the winter and minimize algae and stagnant water. This reduces the amount of effort required and ensures fresh water year-round.

Which is Right for You?

As you consider the costs, effort, and maintenance for both cows and goats, you will need to determine your specific homesteading goals and abilities. If you are looking for cheaper up front costs and low-lactose milk, then goats may be a better option. If you are hoping for more dairy production, an animal with a calmer demeanor, and property size isn’t a problem, then cows may suit you better.

Whichever you determine is the right fit for you and your family, Bar-Bar-A is ready to help you in your livestock care. Our automatic waterers come in a variety of sizes so you can easily find one that is suitable for your goats or cows. Order yours today!