How to Wash a Goat

Co-authored by Ryan Corrigan, LVT, VTS-EVN

Last Updated: May 25, 2020 Approved

Goats do not need to be washed often, but when they get really dirty, they may be due for a good clean. You may wash a goat to show or sell it. Washing a goat can also make grooming them easier. Start by getting the necessary supplies and tying up the goat. Then, wash the goat using shampoo and warm water. Finish by drying the goat properly so they look nice and clean.

Part 1

Part 1 of 3:

Getting Supplies and Tying Up the Goat

1
Get goat specific shampoo. Look for shampoo made for goat hair at your local pet store or online. Goat specific shampoo will be gentle on the goat's coat and ensure it retains its natural oils.
- In a pinch, you can use mild soap like Dawn dishwashing detergent or Soft Soap. Make sure the soap is gentle and does not contain any harsh chemicals like bleach or ammonia.
2
Tie up the goat in an open area with a drain. Make sure the goat doesn't slip away during washing by tying it up to a secure spot, such as a post next to a drain. Put a collar on the goat and tie it up so it is secure.
- Tying the goat up in an open area with a drain will ensure the water can drain properly off the goat when you wash it.
- Lay down a rubber mat so you and the goat don't slip and hurt yourselves in the soapy water, especially if the goat becomes skittish.
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3
Ask someone to help you wash the goat. It can be tricky to wash the goat on your own, especially if the goat is large or skittish. Ask a friend or partner to help you hold the goat and soothe it while you wash it.
- If you are practiced at washing the goat and have secured it by tying it up, you may not need a second pair of hands.

Part 2

Part 2 of 3:

Washing the Goat

1
Mix the shampoo and water together in a bucket. Place the bucket of water close to the goat and within your reach. Pour a few drops of the shampoo into the water and mix it together.
2
Pour the soapy mixture over the goat. Carefully lift the bucket of water and pour the soapy mixture over the goat. Avoid getting any of the mixture in the goat's face or eyes. Let the soapy mixture fall over the goat's coat. Make sure you get the goat's hind legs as well.
- You can also use a sponge dipped in the soapy mixture to drip the mixture over the goat. Do this until the entire goat is covered with the mixture.
- Let the water run down the goat's coat to clean it. Do not scrub or rub the goat's hair as this can strip it up of its natural oils.
3
Rinse off the goat with clean water. Use a bucket of clean water to wash off the soapy mixture on the goat. Lift the bucket and pour the mixture over the goat to rinse it off. Make sure all the soapy mixture is removed from the coat, because leftover soap can be very itchy and irritating for the goat.
- You can gently run your hand through the goat's coat to help distribute the clean water in the goat's coat and remove the soap.

Part 3

Part 3 of 3:

Drying the Goat

1
Let the goat air dry if it's hot out. If you are washing the goat on a warm day, let the goat air dry in direct sunlight. Make sure the goat is tied up and under constant supervision so it does not wander off and get dirty before it dries.
- It may take some time for the goat to dry in the sun, but this method will result in a beautiful, clean, fluffy coat.
2
Blow dry the goat. Another option is to use a blow dryer to dry the goat quickly and efficiently. Use a blow dryer on the gentle heat setting. Tie up the goat when you blow dry it to make the job easier.
- Move the blow dryer all over the goat in a side to side motion to dry their coat. Use the low heat setting so their hair is not damaged by the heat.
- If you want a more powerful dryer, try a blow dryer designed for horses, goats and sheep, which will be more industrial and heavy-duty.
3
Use a clean towel to dry the goat. Gently wipe the water off the goat's coat. Try not to rub the goat's hair, as this can damage it and remove the natural oils. You may need to wipe the goat down several times with the towel to get it dry.