Livestock

You have some land and want to learn about raising livestock. Is it for you? There’s much to learn, including the best animals for larger acreage or more compact farms and backyards.

Livestock

Learn about the benefits of raising animals and choosing the right animals. We have extensive information on why miniature cattle may be perfect for you. Whether you consider goats, cattle, pigs, or other livestock, you must consider:

Shelter – You will need to consider protection from cold or hot weather, rain, and more.
Feeding – How much do they eat and how often to feed them.
Guarding – This includes information on livestock guardian animals and guardian dogs; fencing; and their overall area to live and roam.
Overall health and wellness

Many homesteaders choose to raise animals for milk and meat. They may want them for a more off-the-grid lifestyle or to earn money. Others keep animals as part of a larger survival or prepping plan. Whatever your reasons for considering them, learn what you need so you can make an informed decision.

What is a Livestock Guardian Dog? Here’s What You Need to Know

So what is a livestock guardian dog? It is sometimes misunderstood among farmers and ranchers. Many people feel that all breeds of farm dogs are excellent guardians for their livestock. Know that different types of dogs — herding dogs, companion dogs, and all-around farm dogs — are not always suited to be a livestock guardian dog. However, there are several breeds categorized as livestock guardian dog breeds due to their deep instincts and drive to protect and … Read more

Basics of Caring for Livestock – Different Animals Certain Requirements

Caring for livestock can be difficult if you don’t know the basics. While different animals may have certain different requirements, there are some basic needs that are common for all livestock. You need to take some necessary steps to ensure your livestock gets through the toughest seasons. Basics of Caring for Livestock – Provide Shelter The most basic part of caring for livestock. You can’t leave your livestock outside all the time; they will need a … Read more

Raising Livestock is the Path to Sustainability

Path to Sustainability is Raising Livestock – When it comes to living a more sustainable lifestyle, raising our own food plays a key role. Dependence on grocery stores just won’t do! We’ve been disappointed in the quality, freshness, and availability of many commercial food products anyway. Even though we are big supporters of other local producers and farmers, we don’t want to totally rely on them, either. Besides, we happen to enjoy gardening and raising … Read more

Do You Need a Livestock Guardian Animal? Here’s What to Consider

Livestock Guardian Animal – Before we moved to our rural property, we knew we would need some help protecting our future livestock from the local coyotes, black bears, and cougars. Here’s what we learned when deciding if we needed a livestock guardian animal. We knew that smaller mammals and rodents would also be an issue around poultry. Therefore, we started to search for ways to keep our animals safe. We were surprised to discover a … Read more

How to Be a Livestock Guardian Dog

How to be livestock guardian dog in case any of you do-it-yourself are interested! Livestock Guardian Dog – Even though I am a very busy dog, after a bit of negotiation with myself I agreed to do it and so…here is my DIY how-to! Now where should I start. HMMMMMM. First off, you all need to know that I have a job. Literally. I get paid in many different ways, like kibble and belly rubs, … Read more

The Backyard Cow: Guide to Keeping a Productive Family Cow

We’ve had beef cattle before, but until I read this book, I didn’t see any way I could ever keep a milk cow.

Not enough space, not enough time, not enough knowledge. But author Sue Weaver has changed my mind.

I now know that a cow does not take a lot of space or time. And with this book at my side, I’d have just about all the knowledge I’d need.