# Keeping Sheep or Goats as a Hobby: Rules, Registration and Reality

> A few goats or sheep can be enjoyable, but they are regulated livestock. Registration, ear tags, fencing and daily care all apply.

- URL: https://nestjes.nl/en/knowledge-center/keeping-sheep-or-goats-as-a-hobby
- Category: Livestock
- Published: 2026-06-26
- Author: Redactie Nestjes

Sheep and goats are not simply lawnmowers with personalities. Even a small hobby group is livestock and brings legal duties, daily care and practical responsibilities. Prepare before you buy animals for a field.

## Registration and identification

In the Netherlands, hobby keepers also need to follow identification and registration rules, such as location registration and ear tags. Check current official requirements before bringing animals home.

## Land, fencing and shelter

Good fencing is essential, especially for goats. Animals need dry shelter, clean water, suitable feed, mineral support and parasite management. Wet ground, poisonous plants and poor hoof care can quickly create welfare problems.

## Social animals

Sheep and goats should not live alone. Keep compatible animals and plan veterinary care, shearing for wool breeds, hoof trimming and holiday cover. If you only want grass control, calculate whether maintenance and regulation still make sense.