Can I Use Chain Link Fencing for Goats?
If you are planning your first goat enclosure or upgrading your existing pasture, you might be wondering if chain link fencing is a good option for goats. It is sturdy, easy to find, and often already installed around yards or properties. However, goats are not like dogs or chickens. They are strong, smart, and a little too curious for their own good.
So, can you use chain link fencing for goats? Yes, you can. But there are a few important things to consider before you count on it to keep your herd secure.
Is Chain Link Fence Good for Goats?
Chain link fence can be used for goats in certain situations. It is not the worst choice, but it is definitely not the most goat-proof option either. Goats have a unique talent for testing boundaries, so your fencing needs to stand up to more than just pressure. It has to handle climbing, rubbing, and sneaky escape attempts.
Benefits of Chain Link Fencing for Goats
It is strong and weather resistant
Chain link is durable and holds up well against wind, snow, and rain. It does not rot like wood and is tougher than simple wire strands. If you already have it installed, you have a solid starting point for your goat enclosure.
It keeps larger predators out
Chain link fencing creates a solid physical barrier. Predators like coyotes and stray dogs have a much harder time breaking through chain link compared to regular livestock wire.
It works for certain types of goats
If you have full-size goats that are calm and not interested in climbing, chain link fencing can be a decent option. The key is having a fence that is tall enough and reinforced properly.
Problems With Chain Link Fence for Goats
Goats climb
The diamond pattern of chain link makes it easy for young goats or small breeds to use it like a ladder. If your goats are agile, active, or just plain nosy, there is a good chance they will try to scale it.
They rub on everything
Goats love to scratch. If they decide the chain link is their favorite scratching post, they will lean and push on it constantly. Over time this can pull the fence loose or cause sagging and warping.
Head sticking is a risk
Depending on the size of your goats and the size of the mesh, you might end up with a goat whose head is stuck in the fence. This is especially common with horned goats who push through to nibble grass on the other side.
Gates are a weak point
Many chain link gates are not designed with livestock in mind. Goats will push, test, and sometimes even figure out how to lift or open latches. If your gate is not secure, you may find your herd wandering around the yard or worse.
How To Make Chain Link Fence Goat Friendly
If you already have chain link fencing or plan to use it, you can make it safer and more secure with a few simple upgrades.
Add electric wire
Installing a strand of electric wire near the top and bottom of the fence will discourage goats from climbing or rubbing. Look for a solar electric fence charger if you are off-grid or want something low maintenance.
Attach welded wire or hardware cloth
To prevent head sticking and climbing, add a layer of welded wire mesh or hardware cloth to the inside of the chain link fence. Choose a mesh size small enough to block heads but wide enough to clean easily.
Secure the gates
Use livestock-grade latches or locking carabiners to prevent curious goats from escaping. Even better, reinforce the gate frame to eliminate wiggle room and keep everything tight.
Walk the fence regularly
No matter what type of fence you use, checking it often is the best way to catch problems early. Look for signs of pressure, bending, or digging along the base.
Chain link fencing for goats is not a perfect solution, but it can work with some effort. It is best used as part of a reinforced setup or when you are modifying an existing fence. If you are starting from scratch and choosing the best fencing for goats, you may be better off with woven wire fencing that is specifically designed for livestock.
That said, if chain link is what you have on hand, there is no reason you cannot make it work. With a few smart upgrades and a watchful eye, your goats can stay safe, secure, and right where they are supposed to be.
