Hello Reader,

Whether you’re planning for breeding season or simply looking for ways to keep your goats healthy and thriving, here are a few helpful resources to explore this week. We’re sharing tips for selecting the right herd sire, identifying sore mouth and similar conditions, choosing the right free-choice minerals, and learning a few fascinating facts about goats. Then, put your goat milk to good use with an easy Instant Pot yogurt recipe.

Selecting the Perfect Herd Sire

Fall breeding season will be here before you know it, making now a great time to think about your breeding goals. This guide walks you through choosing a herd sire that can improve your herd for generations, whether you're focused on milk production, conformation, or overall health.

If this article has you thinking about breeding this fall, our FREE Goat Breeding Course is the perfect next step. Learn how to recognize heat cycles, avoid common breeding mistakes, and prepare for a successful kidding season.

Sore Mouth in Goats

Years ago, I noticed a scab on a doe’s mouth when I was milking her, and I freaked out. At that point, we no longer attended goat shows and had already had a closed herd for several years, so how could the doe have been exposed to sore mouth? (Spoiler alert -- she wasn't.)

Goat Minerals: Why, What, and How

Goats need minerals to stay healthy, but not every livestock mineral provides what they need. This article explains why goats should have free-choice loose goat minerals, why blocks and all-stock products can lead to deficiencies, and how water quality can affect mineral absorption. You’ll also learn how to choose an appropriate mineral and offer it so your goats can consume what they need.

12 Fun Facts About Goats

Goats are endlessly entertaining, but they are also widely misunderstood. They are browsers rather than grazers, they communicate with one another, and they can even develop different accents. These 12 fun facts will help you understand a little more about what makes goats such fascinating animals.

📄How to Make Yogurt from Goat Milk in an Instant Pot Making yogurt at home has never been easier—or more delicious! If you have raw goat milk and an Instant Pot, you’re just a few simple steps away from creamy, tangy yogurt that’s healthier and more satisfying than anything store-bought. This guide walks you through the whole process, plus tips for success and troubleshooting. Try this recipe!

Happy Goatherding,

Deborah
& the Thrifty Homesteader Team

📚Want to Learn Even More?

• Did you know we have a Youtube Channel with over 300 videos? From goat care to soapmaking, cheesemaking, and more—you’ll find practical, real-life tips to support your homesteading journey.
• Looking to dive deeper? Visit the Goat Academy—your go-to resource for online courses on everything from goat health and nutrition to soapmaking, gardening, composting, and starting a homestead business. Whether you’re just getting started or want to level up your skills, there’s a course for you.
• Need ongoing guidance and community support? Goats 365 is our membership program that gives you full access to six comprehensive courses, live Q&A sessions, and an engaged group of goat owners who are learning and growing together—365 days a year.

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