Myotonic Goat

Looks how to spot one

Short to long, shaggy hair; heavy muscling

Myotonic goats have a stocky, wide body with heavier than average muscling, which becomes more pronounced with age. Their coat can be short and smooth or long and shaggy, and some individuals even produce cashmere fibre.52

Personality what they are like

Myotonic goats are generally calm, friendly, and people-oriented. They are quieter than many other goat breeds and are known for being good-natured, making them suitable for novice to intermediate keepers.53

Daily activity how busy a day looks

They enjoy browsing, exploring, and moving with herd mates, but are less agile and less likely to challenge fences. Daily movement is important for hoof health, muscle tone, and mental enrichment. Provide low logs, sturdy spools, and gentle mounds rather than tall structures.3

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

Routine care includes hoof trimming, parasite control based on faecal testing, vaccinations (including CDT), and regular wellness checks. Long-haired goats may need extra grooming, especially in muddy conditions. Avoid startling them to reduce stiffness episodes.3

Home where they are happiest

Secure fencing (woven wire or no-climb) is essential, along with a dry shelter, clean water, and protection from predators. Because startling can trigger stiffness, use non-slip footing, avoid high platforms, and keep pathways wide. They are easier to contain than many other breeds.36

Food basics what goes in the bowl

A forage-first diet of good-quality grass hay and safe browse is ideal, with clean water always available. Grain is not usually needed and can cause problems if overfed. Introduce new feeds gradually to avoid digestive upset.3

Company who they like around

Goats should not live alone; they need compatible companions to reduce stress and encourage normal behaviour. Calm handling and slow introductions help reduce startle episodes. They are generally quiet and friendly.3

The story where it all began

The Myotonic goat, also called the Fainting goat, traces back to the 1880s in Tennessee, USA. A farmer named John Tinsley reportedly brought four stiff goats from Nova Scotia and left them in Marshall County. Their offspring became the foundation of the breed. In the 1950s, some were taken to Texas and selected for larger size and meat qualities, becoming known as Wooden Leg goats. The breed's distinctive myotonia, a genetic condition causing muscles to stiffen when startled, gives them a heavier muscled build and makes them easier to contain. Today they are kept for meat, brush control, and as pets, with two main types: smaller companion animals and larger production animals.12

Recognised by the official bits

The Livestock Conservancy

Listed as 'Recovering' status2