Natural shade and windbreaks will protect meat goats during much of the year. The primary need for housing is during kidding, especially if kidding occurs during cold weather. A dry, draft free area is needed. Does can kid in large community pens. Oftentimes, existing buildings can be utilized to house meat goats, store hay and equipment.
Producers can make almost any housing system work.
Confinement housing, which can be completely enclosed as needed, is popular in cold climates and for human comfort and convenience. Confinement housing allows close supervision of animals, but is more expensive than most other types of housing. Goats in confinement require 20 square feet of space, plus an additional 30 square feet for exercise, if pasture is not available. The open side should face away from prevailing winds, the roof should be sloped to repel rain, and there should be adequate drainage around the building. Goats require 10 to 15 square feet of space in open housing.