If goats are managed extensively on pastures, adequate shelter from inclement weather, especially during kidding, is required. Also, goats should be confined in a properly designed shed during the night hours to protect them from predators. The shed should be constructed to provide at least an 8-10 square feet area per animal. It should have three closed sides with 4 feet of wood wall completed with 4 feet of woven wire (half wood and half wire) for adequate ventilation, especially in the Southern states, and with the side open preferably to the south. The south side should be open and only closed by hanging gates. The rear eave height of 4 to 6 feet and front eave height of 6 to 8 feet is ideal and provides for a slanted roof .
Metal roofing with at least a 2 to 3 ft. over-hang on the side will best protect against extreme weather conditions. As indicated earlier, concrete flooring with a slight slope for drainage is ideal; however, it is more expensive and requires bedding. But it is easier to clean and disinfect when needed, especially to prevent disease and parasites. Dirt floors will work as well, but they may get wet, stay wet, and need more frequent bedding changes. Also, portable hutches may be constructed and moved as needed on pasture for animal protection in cold weather. Occasional liming of the floors of these sheds may be required especially under extreme rainy weather. Goats dislike rain and they flock in these shelters more often under rainy conditions; the resulting stress may cause their immune systems to be suppressed, which predisposes them to coccidia and other internal parasites.
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