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If you’re gearing up for a county fair or a 4H project, and you’ve got your sights set on the show ring, then you know that goat showmanship is more than just a walk around the ring. It’s an art, a skill, and most importantly, it’s a partnership between you and your goat. Here at EBG, we’ve spent years teaching the craft of raising and showing top-notch Boer goats to some amazing, hardworking show kids. We’re excited to share some of our hard-earned wisdom to help improve your goat showmanship so you shine in the ring.
What is Goat Showmanship?
Before we dive into the tips, let’s talk about what goat showmanship really is. Goat showmanship is the practice of presenting your goat in the best possible way during a competition or exhibition. It’s not just about having a well-bred, healthy goat—although that’s important too—it’s about how well you and your goat work together as a team.
In the show ring, judges aren’t just evaluating the goat; they’re also looking at how you handle and present your animal. They’re watching for your ability to keep your goat calm and cooperative, how you guide them through the ring, and how well you can highlight their best features. Good showmanship is about showcasing both the goat’s qualities and your skills as a handler, making sure the judge sees the goat at its very best.
Showmanship requires practice, patience, and a good understanding of your goat’s behavior. It’s about building a relationship with your animal so that you both feel confident and comfortable in the ring. Whether you’re aiming for the blue ribbon or just want to improve your skills, mastering goat showmanship is a rewarding part of being involved in fairs and exhibitions.
Tips for Mastering Goat Showmanship
Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned showman, these tips will help you and your goat put your best foot forward when it matters most.
1. Building Trust: The Foundation of Showmanship
Before you even step into the ring, it’s crucial to build a strong bond with your goat. Trust is the foundation of good showmanship. Spend time with your goat every day—feeding, grooming, and just being around them. The more familiar your goat is with you, the more comfortable they’ll be in the ring.
Start by leading your goat around the farm. Get them used to walking alongside you, stopping when you stop, and turning when you turn. Use a gentle hand and a calm voice to guide them. Patience is key here; remember, a confident goat is a winning goat.
2. Grooming: Putting Your Best Hoof Forward
Grooming isn’t just about making your goat look good—it’s about making them feel good too. A well-groomed goat stands out in the ring, and the process of grooming can help strengthen your bond.
Start with regular brushing to keep their coat clean and shiny. For Boer goats, focus on the legs, belly, and back, where dirt tends to accumulate. Trim their hooves every few weeks to keep them in top condition; this also helps them stand and walk properly in the ring.
On show day, give your goat a thorough wash with a mild shampoo. Pay special attention to the ears, face, and legs. Dry them off completely and give them a final brush to bring out that healthy shine. And don’t forget to clean around the eyes and nose—little details make a big difference.
3. Handling: The Key to Confidence
Handling is where all your hard work pays off. In the ring, the judges will be looking at how well you and your goat move together. Your job is to make it look effortless.
Practice leading your goat in a straight line, making smooth turns, and stopping on a dime. Hold the lead firmly but gently, and always stay calm—even if your goat gets a little stubborn. Your confidence will help keep your goat calm and focused.
Another key aspect of handling is setting up your goat’s stance. When you stop in the ring, you’ll need to position your goat so that their legs are square and their back is straight. This shows off their conformation and makes them look their best. Practice this at home until it becomes second nature for both you and your goat.
4. Presentation: Making a Lasting Impression
Presentation is the icing on the cake. It’s not just about how your goat looks, but also how you present yourself. Dress neatly and appropriately for the show—clean jeans, a button-down shirt, and sturdy boots are usually a safe bet.
In the ring, keep your eyes on the judge and be aware of your goat at all times. Smile, stay relaxed, and be ready to adjust your goat’s stance or move as needed. Remember, the judge is looking for a team that works well together—so show off that partnership you’ve worked so hard to build.
5. Troubleshooting: Handling the Unexpected
Even with the best preparation, things can go wrong in the ring. Maybe your goat decides they don’t want to cooperate, or they get spooked by something in the environment. Don’t panic—this is where your calm demeanor and strong bond with your goat come into play.
If your goat starts to act up, take a deep breath and gently correct them. Use the same calm, confident tone you’ve practiced with at home. Remember, the judges understand that animals can be unpredictable; they’ll be more impressed by how you handle the situation than by the fact that it happened.
6. Final Preparations: The Night Before and the Morning Of
The night before the show, double-check everything—your grooming supplies, your outfit, and your goat’s equipment. Give your goat a light meal and make sure they have plenty of water. A good night’s rest is important for both of you.
On the morning of the show, arrive early to give yourself plenty of time to get settled. Do a final grooming touch-up and take your goat for a short walk to help them get comfortable with their surroundings. This will also help you shake off any nerves.
Winning Starts at Home
Mastering goat showmanship takes time, patience, and plenty of practice. But with the right preparation and a strong bond with your goat, you’ll be ready to walk into the ring with confidence. Remember, it’s not just about winning ribbons—although those are nice too—it’s about showing off the hard work you and your goat have put in together.
Here at EBG, we’ve seen firsthand how a well-prepared showman and a well-trained goat can make magic happen in the ring. So, take these tips to heart, and we’ll be cheering you on from our farm to yours. Good luck, and happy showing!
