How to Choose Electric Fencing for Goats and Sheep
Goats are escape artists and sheep have wool that laughs at a weak shock. Electric fencing can contain both - or fail completely - and the difference is a few decisions made before you buy.
Start with the energizer
Under-sizing it is the most common mistake. You want enough joules for your fence length plus margin for weeds, wool and expansion.
- Buy more joules than you think you need.
- Plug-in for a fixed paddock; solar or battery for rotational grazing.
- Aim for several thousand volts at the far end - test it, don't assume.
Netting vs wire
Electric netting is the go-to for goats and sheep and quick to move; keep it clear of tall grass. Multi-strand wire suits permanent paddocks - use several closely spaced strands for goats. Browse electric fencing and the broader fencing range.
Grounding
A fence is only as good as its ground. Use plenty of ground rods, driven deep and spaced out - it matters even more in dry or frozen Prairie soil.
Training stock
Teach animals the fence in a small pen inside a solid perimeter first. One respectful zap and they keep their distance.
Quick checklist
- Energizer sized with margin.
- Netting for rotation; wire for permanent.
- Plenty of deep ground rods.
- A fence tester.
- Keep the line clear of vegetation.
- Train stock before you rely on it.
For the rest of the setup, see goat supplies.
The bottom line
Size the energizer generously, suit the design to your grazing, ground it properly, and train the animals. Get all four right and a hot line is the cheapest, most flexible containment you can run.
- The Vastura crew
