When buying a goat... you should take your time and do some research first. Why do you want goats? What are your herd goals? Refer back to that topic HERE. Once you know what kind of goat you are looking for you can start researching where to get your goat(s) from.

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I look for farms with registered goats and are participating in all the programs for evidence of a fine dairy specimen (Linear Appraisal, Classification, milk tests). I look for farms who disbud their kids so they do not have horns. Not only is that ADGA guidelines, but it's much safer for yourself and the dairy goat. I look for farms who disease test their herd and have proof of it. Anyone can claim to have a disease-free herd. A good farm will not be offended if you ask for proof. If they cannot provide it, then move on. I look for a clean set-up. I understand that most farms are always a work-in-progress but I look for goats with ample space to be a goat, a good feeding program, not filthy living quarters, sleek and shiny coats, no signs of abscesses or any other illnesses like funky fecal matter or runny noses. 

 

If you are new to goats, I would also try to buy from someone who takes the time to answer all your questions and can help mentor. If you are able to meet the goat in person prior to purchase, ask to spend a few minutes with it. Put your hands on it and inspect its health and that you actually like the goat's mammillary system and personality. Nothing is worse than bringing home a goat and hating its personality and something is detrimental to you liking the way it milks (small teats, small orifices, bad milk stand manners, skittish, etc) and you are stuck milking it once or twice a day. 

 

I would be extremely wary to buy a goat from an auction as they are typically there for a reason. Often times you don't know the health of the herd where they came from and it's not worth the risk of bringing some disease back to your herd. You can join some groups that are breed specific and then dive in with your research. Some red flags to look for are a herd that does not disease test or that is specifically breeding for flashy colors. Lots of people claim and boast of a goat from "excellent milking lines" or "related to so & so" which is great but unless their goat is on milk test and participating in Linear Appraisal or a Classification program, I would need more proof that it is indeed an excellent milking goat.

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Here is a great article by Alexis Griffee Tips for New Dairy Goat Buyers - Backyard Goats (iamcountryside.com)

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Here is another article which I loved except I don't wholeheartedly agree with the bottlefed only doe thing. Lots of good goats that we have, have been dam-raised and are just the sweetest. Often times, the bottlefed ones are pushy and obnoxious with several bad habits to break. Every goat has a different personality and quirks, you just have to choose one that works best for you and your family. How To Buy the Perfect Dairy Goat - Homesteady (thisishomesteady.com)

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