Another myth bites the dust: goats are actually highly intelligent. They can learn to open latches, navigate mazes, and even remember problem-solving strategies for months. Studies show that goats can communicate with humans in ways similar to dogs — like looking toward a person when they can’t solve a problem. 

Their intelligence and curiosity, however, means goat-proofing your fences and feed storage is non-negotiable. 

Some people assume goats are aggressive because of their horns or headbutting behavior. But in reality, most goats are gentle, social animals who enjoy interaction. The headbutting you see is often playful or part of their social hierarchy, especially among young goats or bucks (males).

Proper handling and socialization go a long way in raising kind, well-behaved goats.

There's a surprisingly persistent myth that goats can go without water. While they're hardy animals and can survive in arid environments, goats absolutely need clean, fresh water daily to stay healthy.

Water is crucial for digestion, milk production, and general well-being. A dehydrated goat will show signs quickly: reduced milk output, constipation, and even serious health risks like urinary calculi (especially in males). So yes — goats do drink water. And no, rainwater puddles don't count as a reliable source!

You've probably seen or heard the trope: a goat chewing on a tin can, a shirt sleeve, or even car bumpers. While goats do nibble on all sorts of things, it's not because they want to eat them — it's because they explore the world with their mouths (kind of like toddlers).

Goats are actually picky eaters. Their diet is plant-based, and they prefer browsing (eating shrubs, leaves, bark, and weeds) over grazing like cows. If you handed a goat a tin can, it might chew on the label or lick it out of curiosity, but it's not interested in digesting metal.