Milking a Mini Jersey VS Milking Goats - Which is right for Your Homestead?

Should You Get a Mini Jersey? Or should you get a few dairy goats?
Get all your mini jersey vs milk goat questions answered in todays video.
Our a2a2 mini jersey Ladybug has been an awesome addition to our homestead. Before we owned our cow, we owned dairy goats. Our experience milking dairy goats was not as nice as our milk cow experience.
There are, however, pros to milk goats. In this video we discuss the pros and cons of mini jersey milk cows vs milk goats.
Everyday K uses
9 QT Stainless Steel Milk Pail with lid - amzn.to/2DYmXMX
Strip Cup - amzn.to/2EAW1DW
Strainer (not the one we use, could not find it online anymore...) -
amzn.to/2FGVf7Z
Dip Cup - hambydairysupply.com/xcart/pro...
Iodine - amzn.to/2nEXZem
Straining Filters - hoeggerfarmyard.com/xcart/Regu...
Half Gallon Mason Jars - amzn.to/2BRNklF
Plastic Lids for mason Jars - amzn.to/2GL2CfV
Luna's Halter - minicattlesupply.com/products...
Keeping a Family Milk Cow Book - amzn.to/2EgeoR0
Sign up to our email list so you don't miss any of our videos here -
www.thisishomesteady.com/join...
SUBSCRIBE to our PODCAST HERE -
iTunes - goo.gl/oWorJB
Stitcher - www.stitcher.com/podcast/home...
LOVE HOMESTEADY? Help us keep it going!
Becoming a Pioneer - You get instant access to the new forum, discounts, and homesteading classes and podcasts!
www.thisishomesteady.com/head...
Shopping at Amazon through our Amsteady Link -
www.amsteady.com
Just click that link then do your regular shopping, we get a bonus!

[@AJ-ox8xy]

This has shaken my original desire to have goats. Mini Jerseys seems like a good solution to a homestead as it requires less land and makes overall greater yeilds financially and product. The only problem I see, at least for me, is the start up costs and land situation. I think I'll still stick with goats, but this definitely will be on my mind before I buy land and get started.

[@tomdeschesne9391]

Dont rely on half of what is on the internet as actual fact. Goats are cheaper, easier and more docile then cows. I'm a 62 yr old farmer. I know. But if you are scared of animals like these "homesteaders" on youtube, then listen to them, believe them, and be happy like them. Thinking you are "doing it right."

[@xyzsame4081]

@@tomdeschesne9391 being respectful of the fence can be very important, then the grazer(s) can be rotated in short cycles, and grass growth can be optimized. That can be an argument. (goats will be better on a hill, or if there are lots of weeds. It is possible that some breeds of goats are more docile than others. PBS Wyoming about people with goat herds that restore pastures or clear undergrowth that is a fire hazard. 2 couples were featured (one slaughters them for meat, the other couple keeps them since they are experienced and that has value, too. For instance what is poisnous for them, and the young learn from the older ones. I assume they sell animals). . The man of one couple used to work on a cattle ranch. ".... goats cover a lot of ground, if I let a herd of cows here and return after 5 days, I'll find them nearby. Goats ? - I would get a call from the Canadian mounties." Goats are fun, lively and smart - which makes them also escape artists. So the "dumber" and less mobile cows become more useful. it is also a liability risk if you want to work with a fence, and have a public street nearby.

[@xyzsame4081]

@@tomdeschesne9391 I do not think they are scared of larger animals, they find it more practical to work with medium to smaller size. A mini jersey also needs less grass and gives less milk, homesteaders would have to put the milk of a larger cow to use. And since the Mini Jersey is still larger than goats - your claim they are motivated by fear of size does not make sense, then they would opt for goats (they do have goats, but also like their Jersey cow). but if a space is small people might shy away from having a cow - and they tell them they _can_ have one - it might not work for a bigger cow, but they can make do with a mini. They also seem to be tolerant when it comes to the milk volume you want to get from them. So you can let them reduce peformance (fodder ?) and they can rebounce fast. He said (in another video where they talk about different animals and how easy it is to have them on a homestead) that you can't do that with regular cows either. so a mini Jersey is an option to be considered. The milk (and dairy from it) may be easier to sell or barter, because people are used to that taste. Goat and sheep milk tastes differently not everyone likes it. (Could be an option if someone is allergic to cow milk). And if you have a small operation the fat separator is also an investment - you do not need it for cow milk. Jersey also have the reputation of producing FAT milk.

[@SabbathAcresRanch]

@@tomdeschesne9391 Be nice! I agree that goat are better, but that doesn't mean that I say it in a mean way. They are entitled to their opinion just like you are.

[@jimclaire7996]

Cows are easier. The milk is easier to separate out. Goats are destructive, cows, not so much. Goats waste too much, even with key hole feeders. Goats are smaller, but AI is not as well established. Cows are easier to fence in. Cows can be used as prime movers on the homestead. In The Philippines, a cow will cultivate and plow. I prefer beef over goat meat. I agree, cows are better. Cows are bigger, but I think cows are easier to milk. Goats can be easier to move, but they are stubborn. Great video. Thanks for sharing. I am thinking of starting a you tube video on homesteading in The Philippines. I fed hay year around to both cows and goats. I got great milk from both. The hay was cheaper than buying milk. Thanks for sharing. America can use far more couples like you. God bless you, God bless America.

[@timkneiski9919]

America is full of couples on farms, that's the backbone of America, Trump supporters media doesn't want to talk about with guns controlling our own destiny the dream is real despite over regulation by Democraps.

[@xyzsame4081]

@@timkneiski9919 It is valuable to have a lot of people being able to produce food but they still rely on the industrial mass production of goods and services (or they could not have clothes, machines vehicles, foil for growing houses, pumps, solar panels, power tools, furnaces ... - not at all or not at current prices. Read the books of Laura Ingalls Wilder, nails, timber, glass windows, stoves. _shoes_ - they were all very valuable. A seweing machine was a very expensive appliance. The money (in the current economic system) is not made in the country or with food production - it is made with industrial manufacturing. In the U.S. & U.K. finance = speculation has become big, too but they do not create things of value. Sure a few services that are essential, old fashioned boring banking, and lots of speculation on top. Trump bailed them out btw, the "markets" (= the speculators that were caught by the black swan event that surpassed any expected and overdue downturn) got over 1 TRILLION USD in March 2020, before any industry let alone citizens got help. The Fed / treasury did QE - they had started that to the tune of bilions in fall 2019 already despite the "allegedly" good economy - the REPO crisis. But that was peanuts compared to what they created for the speculators. Plus fracking, IT, the hospitality industry. And construction which feeds other speculative bubbles. No, the farms are not the backbone and the number of medium sized and small farms has gone down. We just see those that started out and are visible onle (often NOT coming from farming families, if they have a lot of followers that is an income. 1 million views per month (all views incl. on older videos) might get them 400 USD maybe more, plus it helps with marketing). But of course they do not replace the number of homesteaders and small farms that had to give up in the last decades. I think the small actors that got into it recently have to bring a lot of know how and experimenting to the table. Just homesteading as it used to be does not work - unless at least one partner works "in the system". if is of course an advantage if they made enough money in a former job to pay for the land and equipment or if they inherited.

[@dart336]

According to my friend Caton, his family gained an immunity to posion oak/ivy from drinking their goat's milk because they grazed some of the ivy laying around. He was the only teen in bible camp freely walking around the brush in shorts.

[@timkneiski9919]

Yes that's why farm kids healthier then city kids generally

[@analarson2920]

You can brush against ivy and not react its when the skin gets broken by a scratch that the ivy oil get in and starts the reaction. Some of us with more skin issues will react so good gut health is good health overall usually. My aunt in the city won't react even when she scratches and she is prone to hives but not here. So if you get it on the skin the key is to rinse away from the body with cold water and pat dry with tissue. Always wash clothes that have been exposed separately and then wash the washer by itself. I have had folks decontaminate themselves putting on ivy smeared clothes.

[@katielakefarmandcottages5685]

Thank you. When we bought our two cows, about 350 miles from home, the farmer asked how we were fencing them in? We said electric, we were very proud of our new and only fence, he says”well you my not want to put them in there right away as they are going to go through it because they don’t know about electric”. Yikes where were we going to put them, no pen and fairly wild cows. So our 8 hour drive home was planning “what to do””. Needless to say we built a small pen in about an hour out of some gate panels, planks and posts. We let the calves out first over the next couple of days to learn about electric fence. Then we kept calves in and let cows out to learn. After first shock all was well and within four days they were in their new pasture. Teaching them about milking took a little long. 😉

[@8Jory]

"Make sure her teats are a good size for your hands" "he he he" *SMACK* "Ow..." Priceless lol

[@ChickaWoofRanch]

Excellent video... even though we are "goat people" and have never owned a dairy cow. Thanks for sharing!

[@SundazeFarm]

Right now we have goats (LaMancha and Nigerian Dwarf) and LOVE them. We've not had any issues with fences, though I know that's the exception, not the rule and we have been lucky! We'd like to have a cow someday, but for now goats are working out great for us. We also show them (my sons are in 4-H and do dairy goat projects) and enjoy the milk to drink and make cheese. We have five does and two bucks, and the bucks aren't too bad to handle (though stinky) compared with a bull!

[@SabbathAcresRanch]

Bulls are a pain in the butt!

[@PeyaLuna]

you can easily save money by feeding your goats vegetable scraps, they love apple cores, potato peels,....also, i´d like to point out that while goats give less milk, its almost twice as fat, meaning more butter (honestly a seperator doesn´t cost that much, i got a used one from craigslist for 50 bucks) as for the taste, well its the lack of milk sugar that makes it seem 'tart' by comparison - and a blessing for all lactose-intollerant ;-)

[@Sarah.Bonnie]

I love the humor you too have😂😂😂 so much like my husband and me. Thank you guys I’m really enjoying these cow videos, yes please book list!

[@sarahwithers478]

Love this! I love everything cow-related you put out ☺️☺️ Would you ever do a video on some of the things you make from the milk? Butter, clabber, and the like? I’d love to see a cost breakdown now that you own a cow, much like you did on the cow episode of the podcast. Thanks and blessings as you guys keep up this great work!

[@arwencronin8697]

I just bought a five acre farm and was set on Nigerian dwarf goats, but after watching this I think I will go with a mini jersey instead. I will probably have some goats anyway because they’re cute. Thanks for the video!

[@SabbathAcresRanch]

Goats can turn a profit a LOT quicker. Cows are pregnant 10 months, and are a pain in the butt. the goats are a lot easier to handle and their milk is so much better for you.

[@CanadianFarmGirl1]

How on earth do you guys handle rude comments so well ? My goodness I see some of these comments and just wanna snap out on these jerks. If you dont have anything nice to say then shut up!! and move on.

[@Homesteadyshow]

Haha, if your going to raise goats, expect to chase them around the property... If your going to make a living on KZbin... well, yea ;)

[@HansQuistorff]

Your points are all very sound. To share some things that made milking 20 goats work. (1) Coral: 5 foot woven wire above a 5 foot woven wire. Our barn was 150 foot long chicken barn so 200 feet of fencing twice. (2) Keyhole managers and stalls: One end of the barn was elevated with 2 horse stalls underneath. Each milking animal had a stall with a cement gutter behind and a keyhole to put there head in the manger with a chain to snap on their collar. When they had to stay in at night they did not pull the hay into their stall. They would not eat it all so the remnants were swept to the end where it dropped into the horse manger below. The manure was pushed down to the elevated end to make a pile just above the vegetable garden. [We had very profitable vegetable sales.] (3) Goats do want a routine: it just has to be so much more active than a cow. As browsers taking them for a walk twice a day in the summer was very helpful. I grew up with a scythe in my hands and there were many rural yards that needed to have the long grass mowed. The grass could be fed through the 25 feet of fence along the road. (4) Enclosed milking room in the barn with hot and cold water. The lighter weight of a goat makes it easier to make a milking stanchion where thy are standing at the height you are sitting and there teats are at the height of your hands and the door can be closed after them to keep the dust out. With cold running water each milking could be poured into the strainer into the milk can with water running around it to cool instantly.

[@arccroses9061]

Being so new to all things Homesteading, we are just going to start with Nigerians. Big market for them in Florida for pets and dairy is starting to get some notice here in my area. We don't have a barn yet either so, even though we plan on having some mini cows eventually, they'll have to wait a bit. Chickens, Turkeys, pigs and a breeding pair of Nigerians will have to do for now; but we Do have big plans for our 7.5 acres. Little here, little there. ;)

[@maryclairechittwood1852]

Hey, I enjoyed this video and many others on your channel. You are doing an excellent job! Here is my two cents. We are trying to build up an "urban" homestead.. we have a third of an acre and as beautiful and desirable as you made the mid size jersey sound you do NEED a certain amount of land AND money. I am so glad that neither money not land requirements got in your way but for us it really is an issue. We are looking at getting Nigerian dwarf goats for milk and because we love their personalities. We have visited farms and a zoo that had Nigerian dwarf goats and they are so energetic and lovely and playful and that just fits us. Cows and goats and sheep for that matter are all herd animals and each can be used for milk as I understand it.. With an urban homestead on a little land, with a smaller budget, and with the idea that we need two or three for them to be happy we just can't make the cow a reality right now. I have also heard that goats milk is easier to digest. local raw goats milk here has a "heard share" cost and $10 a gallon, which seems extremely expensive to me. I buy local raw cow's milk for $5 a gallon and we have lactose intolerant people who drink it just fine and it is Soo delicious but 2-6THOUSAND dollars and no where to keep two or more of them let alone one is a good reason for me to either pout or choose the Nigerian and navigate the challenges.. I choose the later. If anyone else out there in the verse is reading this: you choose whether to feel trapped, jealous of traditional homesteaders, or bloom where your planted in your urban environment instead. Some people live in apartments and can't have a dairy animal at all..if any livestock. Still bloom where you are planted... Plant a balcony container garden, learn how to can, make sourdough, Kieffer, cook from scratch, learn...your time is now to make the best choices you can. Choice one: be grateful and two: bloom where you are planted... Plants grow in sidewalks..so can I.

[@xyzsame4081]

It has been a year - but as attractive playful is with an animal it translates to: escape artist, which is especially bad in an area with nearby streets. The goat herders say in rural ares the predators are the poblem and in the settlements other humans and dogs.

[@xyzsame4081]

PBS Wyoming made a documentary about people with goat herds that restore pastures or clear undergrowth that is a fire hazard. check it out - you will like it. Those nomads are most of the time present, and one couple had a border collie the most intelligent breed of dogs and bred for herding. They use electric fencing and have nothing to do but minding their goat herds. - and that is very necessary or the goats would be gone, or be attacked. The man of one couple used to work on a cattle ranch. ".... goats cover a lot of ground, if I let a herd of cows here and return after 5 days, I'll find them nearby. Goats ? - I would get a call from the Canadian mounties." Goats are fun, lively and smart - which makes them also escape artists. So the "dumber" and less mobile cows become more useful. it is also a liability risk if you want to work with a fence, and have a public street nearby. 2 couples were featured: one slaughters them for meat, milking is not an option as they have no steady residency. The other couple keeps them since they are experienced, and likely they have recurring jobs. The experience of the goats has value, too. For instance what is poisonous for them, and the young learn from the older ones. I assume they sell animals as live and experienced mowers. Sounded like they did not get much for the service of "mowing" and they cannot hold another job, they are transporting the herds around. May stay a week or two at most, then they move on, they live in a camper. So they drive separately, one the truck with the goats and the other the camper).

[@xyzsame4081]

I saw a German homesteader also with goats and she got very docile goats recently. Did you get Nigerian dwarfs ? And how did it work out (one advantage of goat milk is that people with cow milk allergy might be able to digest. But diseases seem to be an issue with goats, and worms).

[@maryclairechittwood1852]

@@xyzsame4081 I never did. We actually moved to a rural country area with 2acres and I was so excited... BUT I didn't test the soil or check regulations for the land... And I ended up buying a home and property within "city" limits and they have a NO farm animal policy. The chief of police himself told me I could not have chickens, cows, goats, or any other kind of animal like that... So I double checked and it is true for my new "homestead" animals like that are not allowed.

[@maryclairechittwood1852]

@@xyzsame4081 that is super cool.

[@OrganicallyAnn]

Keep up the great work guys - love your videos

[@rjmprod]

You guys do great videos, also very interesting to someone like me that has no intention of a dairy farm or a farm of any type.....I was very impressed with your style on these videos. Keep up the good work...!

[@candicechristensen1753]

If you could have only added dairy sheep in this it would have been perfect!

[@mmfc6]

We tried goats too.. I prefer cow milk. Our goat had great milk as goat milk goes.. and it is easier for a lot of people to digest... but I like cream in my coffee and goat milk is naturally homogenized. The pigs and chickens got the goat milk.

[@FarmingUnclear]

I've found that goats and fences are similar to what you said about cows. If the goat was always raised around fences when they were tiny and the fences were 4', then the goat will respect the fence. If the goat knows they can challenge or jump a fence, they will. I have seen farms that manage a herd of goats with fences shorter than I'm comfortable with and there was even one farm that didn't use fences at all (the goats knew and respected the boundaries around the house). It definitely depends on the goats and how much time you're willing to dedicate to them.

[@tcr505]

Hmmm. I raised Show and Milking Goats for years. My best milker ate a bale of hay a week and 50lbs of grain would last almost a month. She gave me 18 pounds in morning and 16pounds in evening. 8 pounds is a gallon. So I got little over 2 gal in morning and 2 gal in evening. I could load her in a large dog crate in my van.

[@julielehman8883]

What kind of dairy goat was she?

[@eleanorestratton7696]

So happy I found yall! So much to learn and you make me laugh while I do 😂😊💚

[@kenkarentwo9946]

considering different breeds of goats might have worked better for you - there ARE goats that will provide a great deal of milk and cream so we make caramel, cheese and then there is the in high demand chevon (meat) - high end restaurant demand is wonderful. Fenced properly they stay in,they are easier to move, they will weed your property and others (for a fee), they are easier to help w/ birthing, cleaning, hoof trimming and so much more. If your goats are happy in their barn/yard they will not be constantly trying to get out and hay loss is cut to almost nothing when fed in proper hay feeder. Thanks for the great videos - keep up the great work. Btw.... how is your cow last video I saw she was sick with some disease she came with from breeder? Have a blessed week.

[@Anita-tq8vt]

Hi best regards from Poland in Europe I thing you are guys superb and I’m glad to see your fantastic farm .

[@hisimagenme]

Well done! I think we'll likely go mini jersey/lambs. Maybe goats for more pet and land clearing but it'll depend on where we end up. Smiles and blessings...

[@khamsibq]

Excellent video Still I prefer gaots over the cow They are more socialised animal and clever with a lot of funny moments with them In my country we consider 4 goats are equal to a cow in productivity and better in meat a lot

[@aliciarock5677]

Hang in there !!!!!!you inspired me today so thank you!!!

[@evegreenification]

I love the editing you do.

[@randydickens1350]

Hey homesteady. The comparison of goat and cow video was very informative. Thank you. I see why you prefer cow over goat. One thing I would like you to think about however. Big reason why I am more on the goat side. Not cuz they are so cute and adorable. Right now there is a huge supply of cow milk. $15 to $17 per hundred weight. Not good. Family dairy farms are selling because there isn't a good market. As for goat milk there isn't enough. We as a country have to import in order to meet demands. I feel goats might be the answer to save the small family dairy farms. Goats can't be farmed by these mega farms either. Goats can't be in over crowded confined areas. They will get sick and get the rest of the herd sick. And it just wouldn't be profitable for a huge farm. Also the area I am looking to start a farm I think will have a market for dairy goat products. Maybe not cream but definitely cheese. Thanks for taking the time to read and respond.

[@ladyhawk6999]

I paid $100 for my mini Jersy heifer. She is awesome! My goats were $150 apiece for my purebred Nubians. I also have a few Katahdin ewes who are as good for milk as for meat. We make our own hay and straw. We use feeders to lessen the waste.

[@hollybonnybrookees5908]

Your mini jersey is beautiful! I still love my dairy goats though-maybe it's because I've never had any trouble with them getting out. Several years in and not had a single problem. I can understand why you'd be frustrated over that.

[@xuanwu2932]

I don’t have a cow, or a goat, or any land. But I watched multiple videos of theirs😂😂😂. I would say their videos are very helpful and enjoyable 🤣🤣🤣.

[@nopenotmemaam228]

My gramps always went with goats. Said that he can get milk and then bring three goats to carry his stuff when hiking.

[@HeartinessApproach]

We had a jersey and three goats at the same time. The goats were sweet but great escape artist. We agree with you that when we get our Homestead again we will have ikaw not goats. Great video.

[@kristennicole5994]

You can make goat icecream, and butter 🧈 😂

[@anakaratv5675]

Thank you guys 👌

[@josephnixon5105]

You two are too cute. I really enjoy your videos! Please keep up the great work!

[@cameronmurray4479]

Oh man, I knew this was coming!

[@johnboss3562]

We are still debating, my wife wants a mini jersey cow, I want goats...HAHA Awesome video guys.

[@politewarrior]

Wow. So informative. Thank you. We have acres of pasture and are considering a Dexter heifer. You've given us something else to consider. What do you do with 3-4 gallons of milk daily? Do you raise pigs? I appreciate how informative and humorous your videos are. May all you put your hands to prosper.

[@smilyblessings1315]

Thanks I really enjoyed this I'm thinking of this ,I want a Jersy cow

[@ThatDalyLife]

I’m on the fence between these two as well. We’re still a couple years out on our farm but we have 13 acres of heavy woods with lots of underbrush which is one reason I want a few goats, to clear the underbrush. We have several acres of pasture too. I have a feeling we will end up with both in the future. Thank you for an informative video!!

[@goatman3828]

Goats are amazing animals. Smart, friendly, humorous, and adventurous. Cows are cows. They can be friendly. But if an animal does not want to go where you want it to then try and control a cow. Even a small one. Almost any adult is big enough to control a goat. Not a cow. I have grown up and live on a farm for well over 50 years. Goats win hands down. Put up good page wire fencing and a small building and they are happy. Being smart they are easy to train. Cows, not so much. And what if I only have a family of 4 or 5 people? What do I do with all the extra milk from a cow? And what about the 4 months they don't give milk? 2 goats bred 6 months apart supply all year long. And cost 1/3 what it takes to feed a cow. And take up less room. And less pasture. And I like cows. We had over 50 beefers for years. But goats are easier, cheaper, are more scalable for a family, and easier to house and feed. Never sheep. Never. They are stupid animals that are willing to die without a fight. Ducks. Goats. Rabbits (maybe) and you are set up to have a happy and healthy farm.

[@NadesikoRose]

Snicker, I am not thinking about a market for anything from my animals except maybe eggs from chickens…. My own needs come first before any market, so it doesn’t matter if it a goat or mini-cow that I eventually get…as long as my own needs are met then anything else isn’t my concern…

[@gardenlady1293]

I like both cows and goats.;-)

[@Kat-es4xb]

I just discovered you guys when looking for a way to get wifi to my outbuildings. Go figure. I've been enjoying your videos since. I've always wanted to go mini jersey on my mini homestead but for lack of truck/trailer went with two large alpines, saanen and cream separator all for the price of 3 1/2 goats. Maybe it was the breeds I choose but they were very easy keepers and I made the whole gamut of fresh dairy products plus an average of 6 kids for the freezer each year. Like you though I probably had a lucky first draw on the game. I would still like a mini jersey, cows milk just gets a better rep for not tasting "goaty". Anyways, awesome video it gave me some food for thought. ;-)

[@lionsoulhomestead]

I've found bottle baby goats don't try to escape, really ever, and when they did it was more of a not realized their out of the fence sorta escape. Now our dam raised goats try to run for the hills, and look for escape routes lol We haven't had much milking experience yet (to young), but I've heard that Sannan, Alpine and I believe Nubian can produce up to 1-3 gallons daily just depends on quality and such.

[@yvencia1150]

Thanks!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@Izzy4731]

I swear when the goat leaped over the fence, walked over to you, and then wagged her tail at you I started laughing.

[@renewyourmind1815]

Use a slow feeder for the goats! We feed with a slow feeder for our horses & there is virtually no hay waste!!! Before using one 4 years ago the wind would blow hay away, horses would shove it out stomp & pee & poop in it. Now with the slow feeder, between my driving 15+ hand mare, & 2 Shetland 2 year olds a bale lasts us 2 days, which is literally what we were feeding before this feeder. There was a transition time where they gorged for a week or so & a bale lasted 1 day, but now we can leave for a day trip & not worry about evening chores. It's been WONDERFUL. The one we have is super easy to load as well; my husband made it in an evening. You should totally check those out! Lots of good ideas online.

[@notsosilentmajority1]

Someone had mentioned that people that haven't had goats milk until they were adults don't seem to like it. Apparently, the majority of adults that grew up on cows milk just didn't care for the goats milk although they did like goats. I'm not sure how accurate that is but in my family that did hold true. We all grew up on cows milk and not one of us likes goats milk. I know people make soap and other products from goats milk but that leads me to believe that people may not like goats milk too much or else their milk would probably be a bigger product than soap and other products.

[@jennhill8708]

None of my family grew up on goat's milk, altho, apparently, I was on it as a very little infant. Jim & I loved goat's milk, but our teenage sons hated it. Our younger son moved closer to liking it, as he helped milk. But... Cow's milk won out for our sons. Teens can be very particular. LOL

[@notsosilentmajority1]

@@jennhill8708 So true. There are many things that I like today that I didn't as a kid so I guess it's good to keep trying different things. Except broccoli............. lol.

[@zg6045]

So I have goats and a milk cow. And I have to say I am tempted to sell the cow. She is much more work, much more time in milking, cleaning supplies and processing the huge amount of milk. Which I have to do beside working a full time job. And keeping a buck is easier than keeping a bull or finding a neighbour with the right size of bull and be willing to have your cow until she is bred. So yes, cow milk is more desirable fir more things to do with, but much more work. If you just want to have a milk amount enough for your gamily and making a cheese once in a while than a goat is better. And you can sell the kids easy on auctions and for meat.

[@daynabartley6618]

Beautiful Family

[@theconsciouscorgi2103]

So I’m genuinely curious about the production levels of the cow you have . 3-4 gallons a day? That’s a ton of dairy, what’s the cost and effort that you have to factor in to storing and converting that to different products? I also think I saw a video about how you don’t have to milk them daily. How long can you go without milking them ?

[@keshanfernando1947]

Your chanel is awesome 🥂🥂🥂

[@lindahickman7814]

I had goats. You do not need a separator to get cream, you need patience. I had alpines. They don't have the highest cream content but we had plenty. Just keep the milk in the fridge for two to four days, the cream seperates, just like cows milk. You need to collect about four days to get enough cream for a pound of butter.

[@frogman6887]

Have you uploaded a video on Mini Jersey vs Dexter? We have several acres available for us to use but, we have recently purchased about 9 acres we plan on building on to live and farm on. The 9 is mostly slop with a couple flat sections and almost all trees.

[@candicechristensen1753]

I do like the video game sounds that you added

[@1happycountrymom677]

Both! 🐐🐮

[@CLARlCEsotl]

Great video! Can I ask whether the Jersey is an actual miniature breed of Jersey or whether that's just what you call the Jersey in the US? I know they're generally a smaller breed. She looks pretty normal size, that's why I asked.

[@rampanttricky17]

Fun Video and informative/interesting food for thought. BUT, Escapees are so cute! -- when you watch the videos of other people. "Don't you have something that isn't out of my price range? I don't want to go away empty-handed." (early Simpsons)

[@twominifarms4471]

I prefer goats easier to milk and less expensive to own, sometimes goats waste hay not always 🐏

[@dianecharles881]

This was a great video with lots of good information- , I love that you breast feed when it's necessary, my heart go out to you as I see you are a good mommy! ❤️

[@echosong873]

Ooooooooh... XD... That's what she was doing?... I thought the kid was being fresh!!!*sorry I'm not funny* but great video

[@ethancrownover616]

When only taking one or two cattle to the sale barn or butcher people would build a stake system on their truck bed and could haul to the butcher or sale barn

[@TabithaJaycox]

We are located in Central New York and was wondering where you are (in general) located. This helps me translate weather and terrain recommendations. Thanks

[@Homesteadyshow]

We’re in CT, litchfield county

[@TabithaJaycox]

Thanks

[@davidazinger5639]

Very interesting !!! You two are a team !!!! Your kid (human) is a lucky breast feeder --- Amen !!! Imo --- One walking cow is better than ten leaping goats.

[@sarahsmithers4725]

Well, the coffee creamer did it for me.

[@ruthbarrett8907]

You guys are great and I enjoy your channel. That being said, I take exception to the "goats are always trying to get out of fences" statement. We got 3- Nubian doelings May of 2016. They have been in electric poultry netting with our layer hens , have all given birth and had a visiting buck twice. They have never challenged the fence after feeling the electric shock...

[@Homesteadyshow]

Ruth Barrett we have noticed some breeds are more...agile than others as far as jumping. Our LaManchas could jump a five foot fence no problem. Our Nubians never did. Our Nigerian dwarf was a pusher and our Saanen was pretty contented to stay in one spot. We said this about cows and goats before, save yourself some stress and train them to respect electric fencing!

[@Homesteadyshow]

You got 3 good ones. That said our Nubians were probably the best mannered with the fence.

[@georgegoertzen4723]

@@Homesteadyshow thanks for the better goat/fence opinion. I have wondered if some were better then others

[@georgegoertzen4723]

Thank you Ruth, for sharing your experience with keeping goats fenced in. I don't like the taste of goats milk and wonder if there is one or another that doesn't taste as 'goaty' or has a taste closer to cows milk. I know feed can affect the taste as well as when I was a kid growing up on a farm, our milk cow ate a few onions from a basket of garden vegetables left within reach while collecting eggs. Her next milking smelled so strongly of the onions, that I thought she was sick and her milk not good for drinking. It tasted quite strongly of onions too, but the smell was not so bad when it was cold. The dogs got the next two milkings added to their dinner. Should have made Chee's or garlic butter!

[@claireclaire8370]

I have horses and use a slow feed hay net for my square bales of hay. That way my chunky horses eat less but yet they still get to eat all day long. And there is ZERO hay waste from them trampling and pooping and peeing on it. The nets have paid for themselves after the first month. I know some people use them for cows and goats so I thought I would throw it out there! I use Hay Chix brand. ☺

[@eugenethompson2942]

I'm just curious, whats the difference in price of a mini jersey vs. a full sized one? Also, whats the difference in milk yield between the two? Thanks,

[@yeah_i_likeCartoons]

Are electric fences the best fencing solutions? What about chain-link?

[@OldesouthFarm]

What did you pay for the Mini Jersey you all purchased? As far as bull calves, the Jersey is not even wanted for meat. Now a heifer, totally different and totally agree. But I have some goats who produce kids who sell for $2500 as well. But of course they are the ELITE. Dairy Goat farms will dump buck kids from first freshening goats for nothing just to get rid of them. But the does who milk are a whole different ball game. ADGA sale two years ago sold a Nigerian Dwarf Doe Kid at auction for $16,100! Broke the record for the highest selling goat in the history of the American Dairy Goat Association.

[@Lands8142]

Did you breed your mini jersey with another mini jersey? Or some other breed? If so, which and why? I've heard some mixed things about mini jerseys being bred with Dexters or others.

[@AJ-ox8xy]

Many are bred with Dexters but it depends on the area you live in and how far you are willing to travel. Mini Jerseys are not a "pure" breed at least not until you have a certain number of generations built up and bred properly. Which takes years unfortunately.

[@tothewheel]

Where do you get your Jerseys? I have Jerseys (not minis, but hardly giants; mature weight ~850 lbs) that I'd love to get close to $2000 for. Right now I'm trying to sell heifers due to calve in 6 weeks for $1400, and having trouble finding anybody to buy them.

[@monser1410]

I would get a goat due to being allergic to cow milk. But I love all the information on both the animals.

[@moniquem783]

Naaaaaw, Ladybug ❤️

[@albduke]

You guys look so young. :)

[@sammizimmerman4143]

What is the average amount of cream per gallong for a mini jersey vs a regular sized jersey? Or are they the same? Thanks :)

[@tylercronley6047]

#askhomesteady where did you guys look to buy your house/land? What are some places I should look for large properties 2-10 acres?

[@jennhill8708]

You had Nubians. Ugh. Our Saanen & Saanen Xs were fantastic. We no longer have sheep or goats. We're just at a point where we need a bit more freedom. Hubster will be 70 in a yr & a half. I'm too ill to hold up my end of things, so, we're not going to do livestock, anymore.

[@TanyaCoffman]

Oh snap! I highly value your opinion and appreciate the wealth of knowlege and shared experience...now I'm in a pickle, I was given 2 doe lamacheces (sp) and 1 newbien buck as a housewarming present to help my homestead grow. Being partially disabled, I am scared to move forward. My son does have GI issues and I was told grass fed goat milk is best for digestion, is that equally true for grass fed cows? Thanks in advace for suggestions!

[@TanyaCoffman]

We already set the goat fense up and my hubby is in process of building the goat 'house' and we have 3 weeks before picking them up. And I've no history on them from prior farmer.

[@Homesteadyshow]

Tanya Coffman enjoy your goats! We will have them in the future for sure. We love the cow for her milk, but our goats were our farm ambassadors and they loved everyone!

[@Homesteadyshow]

Best case you will have enough milk from 2 does to take care of your family’s milk needs, and get some great experience. Worst case they escape and you never see them again and give up on dairy all together. Probably you will have lots of fun, have some really frustrating days, swear at them, hug them, and all and all learn something about milking, and enjoy sharing the milk with friends and family. Have fun, don’t worry too much, and if you really like it get a cow 😉

[@TanyaCoffman]

Homesteady and this is why you're awesome. Thanks so much for all you do!

[@SundazeFarm]

Tanya, enjoy your goats and don't second guess yourself! You can always sell them and switch to a cow later if you decide it would make you happy. Make the most of what you've got and enjoy! Goats milk is known for being much easier on the digestive system than cows milk, so give it a try!

[@SeekingHisWill77]

Homesteady, is your cow milked once or twice daily? Thanks for this informative and friendly video:) God bless y'all!

[@Homesteadyshow]

Once a day by us with keeping the calf on

[@SeekingHisWill77]

@@Homesteadyshow Thanks for replying. Looking forward to the experience!

[@ferdinandvanloggerenberg5111]

My question is how can you choose between the two there is not a comparison. Price does not matter I have both and there is little that can give you the enjoyment as a goat and a jersey. Maybe the bigger cows but not between goats and jerseys

[@rockscorner5991]

Aust, I have never had goat meat. How does it compare to deer meat?

[@cindyfinn4845]

#askhomesteady Hi Kendra do you do a sterilization process of your milk bucket and tools for your milking cows and goats?

[@jewelslastname131]

Where did you get the purple overall?

[@astrad6416]

i would go for a mini jersey because i love cows but we can't really process cow milk

[@xyzsame4081]

You could feed a pig with the extra milk and barter with neighbours. There are simple cheeses you can make.

[@winterfae5403]

What do you do with the calf?

[@Steve-ps6qw]

goats!?!?! Everyone uses goats, the question should have been SHEEP!! Why not diary sheep....I wish there was more out there on dairy sheep...but I love your Jersey cow videos, convinced me that is the cow for us. Just one question. In one of your videos you mentioned the chest freezer and the milk frig....how many refrigeration/freezer devices do you have and how are they used?

[@Homesteadyshow]

Hey Stephan, make sure to put #askhomesteady in your questions so I can find them when I do my weekly QnA vids! We have 3 fridges and 3 chest freezers, to divide our frozen meat and dairy goods

[@demetriusballestracci2682]

Are you guys planning on keeping Luna or selling her? For lady bug have you decided to do AI or al natural?

[@Charity1277]

And goats r difficult to milk.some near impossible.there are some tricks to milking goats and you will want to ask someone with experience about this.we had one female who hates us milking her because she only wanted to give her milk to her kids.

[@eqxine._8773]

1:23 I got 2 goats for $700 each (Anglo Nubians) was that a rip off?

[@Fsharpminor7flat5]

Sorry, I think I missed it. You said it takes $6 a day for the cow. How much does it cost to feed a goat?

[@Mgreen4Freezedriedcandy]

They were saying because of the wasted food/hay goats are about the same cost.

[@Aethuviel]

That's interesting. I absolutely prefer cows over goats (where I live, it would be a Swedish mountain cow, about the same size as their medium/mini Jersey), but I don't know whether we'll be able to afford enough land - plus, it would be forested.

[@joeball5937]

My cows in ky has very little flat land

[@rushellealexandra5243]

standard Jersey are cheaper u can get calves as low as $5o .. and look for ones that have small moms. or get a retired milk cow that is small in stature

[@klover_leaf]

I personally prefer goats. Although, the reasoning in quite straightforward... I'm allergic to Dairy. So I would get absolutely nothing from a cow.

[@occonnerwilderness8923]

How much land for a goat? You didn’t say

[@Homesteadyshow]

Christopher Brunty it depends on the quality of pasture. 2-4 goats per acre on poor pasture, or up to 8 on good pasture. Keep an eye out for worm overload in any case.

[@samhainlegge9563]

Why not just get both?

[@firearmsstudent]

11:22 LMAO

[@Gebsy4]

hahahahahah

[@trevorstolz8580]

I am in northern Canada. I breeder told me you can't have just one cow. Because they are herd animals they actually get lonely and depressed. Is that true?

[@jenblatnik8779]

Thanks you very saying this. Exactly my thoughts. These seem like nice people but it drives me crazy the ignorance of keeping a herd animal by itself. So so sad to see this video.

[@joerilbook1300]

How much land will a mini cow require?