Goats

The 4-H Goat Program is part of Tennessee 4-H’s Animal Science offerings, providing youth with hands-on experience in raising, caring for, and exhibiting goats. Participants develop responsibility, decision-making, and animal husbandry skills through activities such as showing and judging. The Goat Program, along with other species including Beef, Dairy, Horse, Poultry, Sheep, and Swine, helps youth grow through practical, real-life learning opportunities.

Shows and Events

4-H members involved in the Goat Project have a variety of opportunities to showcase their skills beyond the show ring. In addition to the Tennessee State 4-H Goat Show, held annually during the Tennessee State Fair, youth can participate in a range of contests that support both creative expression and career readiness:

  • Poster Contest
  • Photography Contest
  • Graphic Design Contest
  • Career Development Contest
  • Goat Sales Talk

Participants can also participate in county and regional events, which provide additional opportunities to build confidence, demonstrate knowledge, and engage with the broader 4-H community.

These experiences help 4-H members grow both personally and professionally while deepening their understanding of animal science and communication.

For information about your local or regional dairy shows, contact your county Extension office.

For Tennessee 4-H State Goat Show details and resources, click the link!


Dairy Project Toolkit

  • Coming Soon!
  • Goat Yoga: Host a light yoga session with friendly goats—great for stress relief and public engagement!
  • Goat Care: Learn how to feed, clean, and care for your goat every day.
  • Health & Nutrition: Plan a healthy diet and keep track of your goat’s growth and vaccinations.
  • Showing Goats: Practice grooming, handling, and showing your goat in the ring.
  • Breeding Basics: Learn about how goats reproduce and how to plan for kids.
  • Selling & Marketing: Create ads, practice your Goat Sales Talk, or explore goat-related business ideas.
  • Public Speaking: Share what you’ve learned through speeches, posters, or photography.
  • Career Exploration: Discover careers in animal science, vet care, or livestock management.
  • Community Engagement: Take your goat to a local nursing home for a “petting zoo.”