Abstract

Natural behaviour is a key indicator of animal welfare, reflecting an animal’s ability to express species-specific patterns essential for survival and wellbeing. This review outlines the principal natural behaviours of domestic goats (Capra hircus) and their relevance to farming systems. Goats demonstrate adaptive feeding strategies, complex social structures with clear dominance hierarchies, and notable cognitive abilities including long-term memory and problem-solving. They show strong preferences for elevated areas, shelter, and hiding spaces, which can reduce aggression and social stress when incorporated into housing design. Maternal and neonatal behaviours, particularly early bonding and timely suckling, are critical for offspring survival. Overall, enabling goats to express their natural behaviours through appropriate management and housing is fundamental to improving welfare and productivity.

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Funding