7 goat breeds people swear are the sweetest

Some goats are more curious and sassy than sweet, but there are breeds that truly have a gentler side. If you’re raising goats for more than just milk or brush control, temperament matters. Friendly goats are easier to handle, less stressful to work around, and often better with kids and other animals. That said, personality still varies goat-to-goat, so you can’t rely on breed alone.

Sweet-natured breeds tend to be easier for beginners and families, but you’ll still need to socialize them early. Goats that are handled often, given space to roam, and treated with patience will show their calm side more consistently.

Nigerian Dwarf

Nigerian Dwarfs are small, colorful, and known for being people-oriented. They’re often kept as family pets because they’re gentle with children and adapt well to different environments. Their small size makes them easier to manage than larger dairy breeds.

These goats thrive with daily attention and can form strong bonds with their owners. They’re also great milk producers for their size, giving you a dual-purpose animal that’s both friendly and functional. Just make sure their pens are secure—they’re still goats and will try to test the boundaries.

Nubian

Nubians are easy to spot with their long, floppy ears and vocal nature. While they can be talkative, they’re often affectionate and enjoy interacting with people. They’re known for following you around the pasture like a shadow.

Because of their size, they’re better suited for someone comfortable handling larger goats. With regular handling from a young age, they can become calm and docile, making chores like milking and hoof trimming much easier.

Kinder

Kinders are a cross between Pygmies and Nubians, combining a manageable size with a sweet, approachable personality. They tend to be playful without being overly pushy.

This breed is also productive, offering both good milk yield and meat quality. Their easygoing nature makes them a good fit for smaller farms or homesteads looking for a dual-purpose goat that won’t give them trouble in the pen.

LaMancha

Known for their tiny “gopher” ears, LaManchas have a reputation for being steady and calm. They’re less skittish than some breeds and tend to settle quickly into routines.

Their gentle personality makes them a great choice for 4-H projects or family farms. They’re strong milkers and handle close contact well, so chores like milking or vet checks go smoothly.

Pygmy

Pygmies are more compact than most goats and often have a naturally friendly disposition. They adapt well to smaller spaces and can be kept as pets or companion animals in addition to being small-scale milkers.

Because they’re so social, they do best when kept with other goats and given daily interaction. Their manageable size makes them a great option for families with limited pasture space.

Saanen

Saanens are one of the largest dairy breeds but also among the calmest. They’re often described as “easy keepers” when it comes to temperament, adapting well to regular handling and structured routines.

While their size requires sturdier fencing, they’re not known for being overly pushy or aggressive. Their steady nature makes them good for people who want a high-producing dairy goat without dealing with excessive stubbornness.

Alpine

Alpines are hardy and adaptable, but with the right handling, they can also be very people-friendly. They’re naturally curious, which makes them easier to train and engage with.

They’re excellent milkers and can thrive in various climates. Early socialization and consistent handling will help them lean toward their gentler side, making daily care much easier.

*This article was developed with AI-powered tools and has been carefully reviewed by our editors.