ICEV Animal Science Certification Practice Exam 2026 - Free Animal Science Practice Questions and Study Guide

Goats are curious and can squeeze through or rub against fencing, so containment must be reliable and safe. The fencing type most commonly used in goat operations is woven wire. Its small, tight mesh creates a barrier goats can’t push through or reach past with their bodies or horns, reducing escapes and injuries. It also stands up well to the outdoor environment and, when properly installed with sturdy posts and proper tension, remains cost-effective for larger pastures.

Electric fencing has a valuable role for grazing management and temporary containment, and some setups use electric lines in combination with woven wire for extra security. But electric fencing alone isn’t the standard, since goats can learn to test or breach it if not maintained, and it often requires more ongoing maintenance and management.

Barbed wire is generally avoided because it can injure goats and they can still find ways to slip through or become entangled. Chain link, while durable, tends to be more expensive and can leave gaps at ground level if the installation isn’t perfect. Woven wire remains the most common, practical choice for goat fencing.