10 farm animals suitable for hobby keepers

1. Chickens

Chickens are perfect for beginners. They need relatively little space and are easy to care for. They require a secure coop for the night, room to roam and protection from predators. Chickens are naturally very social and should therefore be kept in a group.

Benefits:

• Easy to care for
• They lay fresh eggs
• They help control pests such as insects and slugs

2. Ducks

Ducks are generally calm and social animals and can live well with other poultry, as long as they have enough space. A large pond is not necessary, but they do need access to water to care for their beak and feathers.

Benefits:

• Calm animals
• Enjoy eating slugs
• Cope well with cold weather

3. Goats

Goats are curious, intelligent and active animals. They have a strong need for companionship and cannot be kept alone. A well-secured enclosure is important, as goats are very good at escaping. They enjoy variety in their environment and love climbing.

Benefits:

• Help keep vegetation short
• Intelligent and keen to learn
• Some goats produce milk

4. Sheep

Sheep are calm animals that enjoy grazing and are suitable for larger areas of land. They prefer living in a small group and need shelter from rain and wind. Regular coat and hoof care is very important.

Benefits:

• Keep grass short
• Calm temperament
• Produce wool

5. Pigs

Pigs are very intelligent and sensitive, which means they need a lot of attention. They also need plenty of space to root around and are very strong, so they require sturdy fencing.

Benefits:

• Can process food scraps
• Intelligent
• Social

6. Rabbits

Rabbits can be kept outdoors, provided they have enough shelter and can sit out of draughts. They are very social and should be kept in pairs. It is important that they have enough space to move around. Rabbits are also intelligent and need mental stimulation.

Benefits:

• Manure can be used in the garden
• Social
• Relatively easy to keep

7. Guinea pigs

Guinea pigs are very friendly and social and should be kept in at least pairs. They are not suitable to roam freely and therefore need a secure run to protect them from danger. Guinea pigs make a lot of noise and are fun to watch.

Benefits:

• Social
• Need relatively little space
• Great for families

8. Turkeys

Turkeys have a strong character, need more space than chickens and are sensitive to damp conditions. They are very alert and respond quickly to changes in their environment.

Benefits:

• Alert
• Calmer than chickens
• Active and curious

9. Miniature donkeys

Miniature donkeys are calm, intelligent animals. They cannot be kept alone and need enough space to graze. They are often kept as companion animals for horses or sheep. It is important to manage their diet carefully, as they are prone to becoming overweight.

Benefits:

• Calm
• Great companion animals
• Long lifespan

10. Alpacas

Alpacas are calm and curious animals and are increasingly kept as a hobby. They are herd animals and must live with others of their kind. They like to graze selectively and keep grass tidy. A spacious pasture with good fencing is therefore essential.

Benefits:

• Calm temperament
• Social
• Produce wool

What should you consider before getting a farm animal?

Before keeping farm animals, it is important to consider the points below:

• Space and time: farm animals need sufficient living space and require daily care
• Costs for food, housing and veterinary care: in addition to food, there are costs for accommodation, care and the vet
• The animal’s needs: each animal has specific needs when it comes to food, care and companionship
• Regulations and permits: local authorities may have rules for keeping farm animals, especially in residential areas