Here is a database of resources for individuals interested in producing small ruminants (sheep and goats). The majority of resources focus on small scale production.
Please note that some practices, regulations, pests, or management needs will vary based on location and region. Should you need specific guidance for your area, please contact your local Cooperative Extension Agent for assistance.
Should you need resources a resource you do not see here, please let us know by calling your local Extension office.
Written Publications and Resources
Sheep Breeds & Selection
“Introduction to Sheep Breeds”
Cornell University
Brief overview of sheep purposes (wool, milk, meat, and hair) and suggested breeds for each purpose.
“Choosing Breeds for Producing Profitable Market Lambs”
Ontario Ministry of Agriculture
In-depth review of sheep production systems and breed selection specifically for producing market lambs. More technical than other resources on this list and is not based in the U.S., so some breeds discussed may not be as popular or available in your region .
“Breeds of Sheep”
Oklahoma State University Extension
Extensive alphabetical list of breeds of sheep with links to additional information on the breed and it’s purposes.
“Sheep Selection”
Alabama A&M and Auburn Extension
Article discusses selection methods and criteria to use when purchasing breeding stock for a sheep operation.
Goat Breeds & Selection
“Criteria to Select Goat Breeding Stock”
Alabama A&M and Auburn Extension
In-depth discussion of selection tools used for improving herd hardiness and productivity for goat producers.
“Breeds & Production Traits of Meat Goats”
NC State Extension
Article discusses six of the most common meat goat breeds as well as four selection criteria that improve meat goat production to consider when purchasing breeding stock for your operation.
“Breeds of Goats”
Oklahoma State University Extension
Extensive alphabetical list of breeds of goats with links to additional information on the breed and it’s purposes.
“ADGA Breed Standards”
American Dairy Goat Association
This article discusses the breeds of dairy goat recognized by the American Dairy Goat Association and some of their notable characteristics.
Facilities & Housing
“Preparing Your Property for Dairy Goats and Sheep”
Alabama A&M and Auburn Extension
Discusses considerations for facility design including: stocking rates, shelter, housing, fencing, and equipment.
“Housing & Facilities for Dairy Goats”
Alabama A&M and Auburn Extension
Short article discussing facility design for dairy goats including pasture type and size, housing and shelter, feed, and predator protection.
“Housing and Facilities for Meat Goats”
NC State Extension
Details shelter, kidding facility, and working facility needs for a meat goat herd.
“Electric Fencing for Sheep”
Oklahoma State University Extension
In-depth review of the use of electric fencing including charging, grounding, training sheep to fences, and options for both permanent and temporary fence lines.
“Goat Pasture Fences”
Extension Foundation
Briefly discusses options for permanent fencing including electric and non-electric types.
“Housing and Working Facilities for Sheep”
University of Massachusetts Extension
Article introduces considerations for planning a sheep facility, housing designs, and minimum space requirements for sheep.
“Fences for the Farm”
University of Georgia Extension
Lengthy article discussing all types of fencing for livestock from planning, materials, construction, and maintenance.
Soil Health & Pasture Management
“Pasture Principles for Small Acreages”
University of Idaho Extension
Lengthy article discussing pasture planning, improvement, soil management, and grazing practices for optimum pasture growth and animal performance. Please note, forage species may vary based on region and those mentioned in the article may or may not be appropriate for your geography.
“Soil & Fertilizer Management in Georgia”
University of Georgia Extension
In-depth publication discusses the importance of each nutrient in soil as well as the benefit of different soil amendments. Much of this article is specific to Georgia, but nutrient importance and soil amendment information is applicable regardless of region.
“Grazing Management and Soil Health”
USDA
Discusses how to manage livestock grazing to improve soil health and animal efficiency.
“Introduction to Soils”
Penn State Extension
Introduction to soil health, soil testing, and soil fertility.
“Soil Sampling Procedures for Pastures and Farms”
University of Georgia Extension
Step-by-step instructions for taking soil samples correctly on your property.
“Feeding Small Ruminants: Developing a Grazing System for Sheep and Goats” Ohio State University Article discusses the grazing habits of sheep and goats and how to develop an appropriate grazing system for them.
“Pastures for Profit: A Guide to Rotational Grazing”
University of Wisconsin Extension
Lengthy publication discussing animal grazing patterns and how to set up a rotational grazing system.
“Pasture & Grazing Management for Parasite Control” Tuskegee University Extension In-depth article talks about how small ruminants get parasites from grazing pasture and what producers can do to help reduce parasite burden in their animals via grazing management.