Опубликовано: 24 июля 2025

When it comes to raising goats and sheep, one of the most important aspects to consider is fencing. A well-designed fence does more than just mark property boundaries—it protects your animals from predators, prevents them from escaping, and helps manage grazing areas effectively. But what kind of fence works best for goats and sheep? What materials should you use? How high should the fence be? These are common questions that every small-scale farmer or hobbyist shepherd grapples with.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about fences for goats and sheep. From types of fencing materials to specific construction tips, we’ll break down the best practices that combine security, affordability, and ease of maintenance. You’ll learn how to build fences that are not only functional but also long-lasting and safe for your animals.

Why Proper Fencing is Essential for Goats and Sheep

Goats and sheep have very different behaviors and physical capabilities compared to other farm animals like cows or pigs. Their fencing needs reflect these differences. Goats are notorious escape artists—they are curious, agile, and intelligent animals that can jump, climb, and squeeze through surprisingly small spaces. Sheep, on the other hand, are more docile but tend to flock together, meaning a single weak spot in a fence can lead to a mass escape.

Having secure fences means reducing stress—not just for your animals but for you as the caretaker. Constantly chasing runaway goats or sheep is exhausting and can strain your relationship with the flock. A good fence also minimizes your exposure to predators such as coyotes, wolves, or stray dogs, which are naturally attracted to vulnerable livestock.

Finally, fencing helps manage pasture rotation and grazing habits. Different types of fencing can be used to section off parts of your land, improving pasture health and ensuring sustainable feed for your goats and sheep.

The Behavioral Differences Between Goats and Sheep That Affect Fencing

Understanding how goats and sheep behave will guide your fence selection and design choices. Goats tend to be more adventurous—they climb on things, test boundaries, and can even jump over fences if motivated. Many goats can leap fences that are under four feet tall. Sheep prefer to stay closer together and won’t generally climb or jump, but they’re excellent at finding holes or weak spots in fencing to follow the rest of the flock.

This means while height is critical for goats, strength and tightness of the fencing mesh is crucial for sheep containment. You’ll sometimes need different fencing strategies if you keep both species together.

Types of Fencing for Goats and Sheep

Choosing the right kind of fence begins with understanding the common options available, each with its pros and cons. Let’s take a look at the most popular fencing types used for goats and sheep, categorized by materials and structure.

1. Woven Wire Fencing

Woven wire fencing is often considered the gold standard for both goats and sheep. It consists of horizontal and vertical wires woven tightly together, creating a grid pattern that prevents animals from squeezing through or getting tangled.

Pros	Cons
Strong and durable Good for preventing escapes Effective against predators Long-lasting with proper maintenance	Can be expensive initially Installation requires effort and skill Wire ends can be sharp, risking animal injury

Woven wire fencing with square openings about 4 inches by 4 inches works well for sheep because it keeps their heads from slipping through. For goats, slightly smaller mesh is recommended to avoid their nimble heads from getting stuck or trying to escape.

2. Electric Fencing

Electric fences use wire strands connected to a power source that emits a mild shock. This shock discourages animals from pushing or leaning on the fence. It’s particularly effective when combined with another physical barrier.

• Low cost and easy to install
• Portable options available, ideal for rotational grazing
• Works well as a psychological deterrent
• Requires electricity or a solar pack

Electric fencing alone may not be sufficient for goats, since their coats can insulate them from the shock, reducing its deterrent effect. Sheep tend to respect electric fences more readily. Combining electric wires with woven wire or wood fencing improves security significantly.

3. High-Tensile Wire Fencing

High-tensile wire fencing involves using thin, strong wires stretched tight across posts. The wire can be electrified or not. This fencing is commonly used for larger livestock but can be adapted for sheep and goats.

• Flexible and strong
• Can cover large areas at a lower cost
• Requires good tension and regular maintenance

However, this wire type isn’t always ideal alone for goats and sheep because smaller animals might crawl under or through the wires if the spacing is too wide.

4. Board Fencing

Wood board fencing looks attractive and can be very strong. Typically, 4- or 6-inch wide boards are nailed horizontally or vertically onto wooden posts.

• Visually appealing
• Very strong and secure
• Effective at keeping predators out

This type of fence is more commonly used for horses and cattle but can work for goats and sheep if boards are spaced to prevent animals from squeezing through or jumping over. It’s also more expensive and requires ongoing maintenance like painting or sealing to prevent rot.

5. Mesh or Netting Fencing

Plastic or metal mesh netting fences are lightweight and often used in temporary or small-scale setups. They can be electrified for better results.

• Flexible and easy to install
• Good for small areas or creating temporary pens
• Not as durable long-term
• Less resistant to predators

Mesh fencing can be a practical choice for minibatches or rotational grassing but may need to be replaced or reinforced periodically.

Key Factors When Choosing Fences for Goats and Sheep

Selecting the right fence isn’t just about picking a material. Several critical factors determine how effective your fence will be.

Fence Height

Goats can jump quite high—usually about 4 feet or more—so fences for goats should be at least 4 to 5 feet tall. Sheep are less likely to jump but can still escape through gaps.

Size of Mesh or Opening

Small mesh sizes (around 4×4 inches or less) prevent young or smaller animals from getting stuck or from slipping through. It also restricts predators from reaching in.

Durability and Maintenance

Your fence should withstand weather and animal pressure. Materials like galvanized wire resist rust, while wood needs periodic maintenance.

Cost and Budget

Balancing upfront costs with long-term durability is essential. Sometimes a higher initial investment saves money and headache later.

Predator Protection

Depending on your area, adding electric wire, smaller mesh, or buried fencing can protect against digging predators.

How to Build a Fence for Goats and Sheep

Constructing a fence that truly works is a step-by-step process. Here’s a simplified guide for building a woven wire fence, which is a preferred option for many goat and sheep owners.

Materials Needed

• Woven wire fencing rolls
• Fence posts (wood or metal)
• Post driver or power auger
• Staples or fencing nails
• Fence stretcher or come-along tool
• Electric wire and charger (optional)
• Protective gloves and fencing pliers

Step-by-Step Fence Installation

1. Plan and measure your fence perimeter. Use stakes and string to mark the area.
2. Install corner posts first. These need to be sturdy, often set deeper and with concrete for extra strength.
3. Set line posts every 8-10 feet. Use a post driver or auger for easy insertion.
4. Unroll woven wire and attach to a corner post. Use a fence stretcher to pull the wire tight and prevent sagging.
5. Staple or nail the wire to posts, keeping it tight. Make sure the bottom edge is close to the ground to prevent animals from crawling underneath.
6. Add an electric wire (optional). Place it 1 inch above the woven wire to discourage leaning or jumping.
7. Check for sharp wire ends and bend them away from animals. Safety comes first!

Tips to Keep Your Fence Goat and Sheep Friendly

Goats especially love to test fences. Here are a few tips to ensure your fence doesn’t become their playground:

• Use a ‘goat guard’: Adding a lower horizontal wire about 6 inches from the ground makes it harder for goats to crawl under.
• Regularly inspect for holes or damage: Keep a maintenance schedule and fix issues promptly.
• Provide enough grazing and enrichment inside the pen: Bored goats or sheep are more likely to try to escape.
• Add multiple deterrents: Combine woven wire with electric fencing, a ditch, or additional barriers.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Fencing Goats and Sheep

Even experienced farmers sometimes fall into these traps:

• Too short fencing: Goats jump underestimating their capabilities.
• Wide mesh sizes: Allowing animals to get stuck or escape easily.
• Weak corner posts: Resulting in sagging or collapsing fences.
• No predator proofing: Inviting trouble from wild animals.
• Neglecting maintenance: Missing holes or rust leads to fence failure over time.

Cost Comparison of Fence Types

Cost can be a decisive factor, especially if you have a large area to fence. Below is a rough guide to material costs per 100 feet of fencing.

Fence Type	Material Cost (Approx.)	Installation Effort	Best Use Case
Woven Wire	$150 – $300	Moderate to High	Permanent Fence, Multiple Animals
Electric Wire (Polywire)	$50 – $100	Low to Moderate	Temporary or Portable Fencing
High-Tensile Wire	$80 – $150	Moderate	Large Pastures, Cost-Effective
Board Fence	$400 – $700	High	Small Areas, Aesthetic
Mesh/Netting Fence	$60 – $120	Low	Temporary, Small Scale

Maintaining Your Fence for Long-Term Success

You’ve invested time and money—now it’s vital to maintain your fence to ensure it lasts and keeps working effectively.

• Inspect fences monthly for broken wires, sagging, or holes.
• Replace or tighten any loose staples or nails.
• Clear vegetation growing near wires to prevent rust and shortcuts.
• Check electric fence chargers and batteries regularly.
• Repair predator tunnels immediately.

Keeping a simple maintenance log can save headaches and avoid costly repairs down the road.

Combining Fencing Types for Maximum Effectiveness

Sometimes, the best approach isn’t relying on a single fence type but combining them. For instance, a woven wire fence topped with one or two strands of electric wire can deter goats from climbing or pushing too hard. Surrounding the entire enclosure with electric fencing and adding buried mesh below ground can keep predators at bay.

In rotational grazing systems, portable electric fences on woven wire bases allow you to move animals easily while maintaining security.

Fencing Considerations for Different Climates and Terrains

Where you live impacts fence choice and construction details. In rocky or uneven terrain, woven wire fencing should be stapled tightly to posts and the fence stretched just right to prevent sagging or gaps. In colder climates, metal parts should be galvanized or coated to prevent rust and damage from freezing cycles.

Goats in mountainous or hilly areas tend to be better climbers, so fencing should accommodate their natural abilities, for example, higher fences or fences that extend underground to stop burrowing.

Fence Adaptations for Predators

If you live in areas with wolves, dogs, coyotes, or foxes, your fence must be predator-proof. This could mean adding electric wires, installing wire mesh below ground at least 12 inches to prevent digging, or using a packed gravel base that makes digging harder.

Conclusion

Choosing the right fences for goats and sheep requires understanding your animals’ behaviors, local environment, and budget. Woven wire fencing remains the leading option due to its balance of strength and security, especially when paired with electric fencing to deter climbing and pushing. Goat fencing must be taller and more robust to handle their agility, while sheep fencing should focus on preventing escape through tight mesh and strong construction. Whatever fence type you pick, consistent maintenance and thoughtful design are essential to protect your flock, manage your pasture, and give you peace of mind. With the right fence in place, you can enjoy raising your goats and sheep without worrying about escapes or predators, creating a safe, happy home for your animals for years to come.