A Day in the Life of Grazing Goats, Guarded by Max the Dog

Hello, fellow landowners and animal lovers! My name is Max, and I am the proud guard dog of a lively herd of grazing goats here in Lebanon, Oregon. Today, I’m excited to take you through a day in our life, through my eyes (or should I say, my nose?). We are on a job in the woods just outside Salem, Oregon.

Morning Routine

Our day begins at the crack of dawn when the first rays of sunlight peek over the horizon. I wake up before everyone else to patrol the area, ensuring everything is safe and sound. Once I give the all-clear, the goats start to wake up, bleating softly as they stretch their legs and shake off sleep.

Breakfast Time

The goats love their morning routine, and breakfast is a big part of it. They eagerly munch on the lush green grass, wildflowers, and shrubs that cover the land. This helps to clear the land of overgrown vegetation, making it healthier and more manageable for the landowners. Meanwhile, I keep a watchful eye out for any potential threats, from coyotes to sneaky raccoons.

Mid-Morning Play

After their hearty breakfast, it’s time for some play. The kids (young goats) are especially energetic, jumping around and butting heads in friendly competition. The adult goats aren’t far behind, enjoying a bit of frolicking and socializing. This playful behavior isn’t just fun to watch; it’s also essential for their physical health and social bonding.

Afternoon Nap

By noon, the sun is high in the sky, and the temperature starts to rise. This is the perfect time for a nap. The goats find shady spots under trees or large bushes to rest and chew their cud. Chewing cud is crucial as it aids in their digestion, and it’s a sign that they are content and relaxed. I take this opportunity to lie down nearby, resting my paws while staying alert to any unusual noises.

Late Afternoon Grazing

When the heat of the day starts to wane, it’s time for another round of grazing. The goats spread out across the property, nibbling on different plants and ensuring no area is overgrazed. Their varied diet helps maintain a balanced ecosystem, controlling invasive species and promoting the growth of native plants.

Evening Patrol

As the sun sets, it’s time for my evening patrol. I circle the perimeter of our grazing area, making sure that all the goats are accounted for and that there are no threats lurking in the shadows. Once I’m satisfied that everything is secure, we head back to our pen for the night.

Nighttime Rest

With the goats safely tucked away, it’s time for me to settle down for the night. I found a place where the deer used to bed down, making a very comfortable nest for me tonight. My job is never truly done, though, as I remain vigilant even in my sleep, ready to spring into action if needed.

Overnight

Last night I smelled something in the area that wasn't one of my goats, so I threw out a couple of woofs and a howl as a warning to the would-be intruder. And as always, it worked to convince whatever-it-was to go somewhere else.

Today was just another typical day in the life of our grazing crew, but every day brings its unique experiences and challenges. We’re not just a herd of goats and a guard dog; we’re a team working together to keep the land healthy and thriving. If you’re considering renting goats for land management, or if you’re simply an animal lover like us, we hope this glimpse into our daily routine has inspired you.

Stay safe and keep grazing,

Max the Guard Dog

About Agrigraze

Agrigraze is a family-owned business based in Lebanon, Oregon, specializing in eco-friendly land management. Our growing herd of 50 goats provides a natural alternative to traditional forestry mulchers and commercial mowers, effectively clearing land for both residential and rural property owners. At Agrigraze, we are committed to sustainable practices that benefit both the environment and our community. Schedule an estimate for your property by calling or texting 541-897-8767. Learn more at AgrigrazeLLC.com.