Goats breed profile
Myotonic Goat (Fainting Goat)
Also known as: Tennessee Fainting Goat, Wooden Leg Goat
- Heritage meat / homestead
- Tennessee, U.S.
- medium
- Temperament: calm
- Heritage
- Conservancy: Recovering
Myotonic (fainting) goats are an American heritage breed with an unusual genetic muscle condition. Calm, well-suited to small farms, but predator-vulnerable. Strong direct-marketing appeal.
Production & size
Mature size and output.
Female weight
60–125 lbs
Male weight
100–175 lbs
Daily gain
0.3 lbs/day
Reproductive traits
Gestation
150 days
Kids/doe
1.8
Seasonality
seasonal
Maternal
excellent
Health & climate
Parasite resistance
good
Heat tolerance
good
Cold hardiness
good
Humidity tolerance
good
Common health concerns
- Cannot escape predators easily due to myotonia — predator protection mandatory
Management requirements
Experience
beginner friendly
Housing
basic shelter
Fencing
woven wire
Feed system
pasture, hay
Market access
Commercial market
fair
Direct-market appeal
good
Premium potential
Yes
Heritage status, novelty appeal, and excellent meat quality support direct-marketing premiums.
Myotonic Goat Registry →