Differences Between Sheep and Goats

Sheep and goats are both domesticated animals belonging to the Bovidae family, yet they differ significantly in their physical characteristics, behaviour, and biological traits.

Sheep

Sheep are domesticated ruminant animals primarily known for their thick, woolly coats. They are generally shorter in height with a rounded body shape. Female sheep usually do not have horns, while males may possess twisted horns.

Sheep typically give birth to only one lamb at a time. They do not have wattles or beards. One of the most distinctive features of sheep is their dense growth of wool, which covers much of their body. Their tails are short and usually hang down. Sheep are mainly raised for wool, meat (lamb or mutton), and sometimes milk, depending on the breed and region.

Goats

Goats are agile and hardy animals with a taller, leaner frame compared to sheep. Their body conformation is more angular and laterally flattened. Unlike sheep, both male and female goats usually have horns, though the horns are not twisted. Goats often give birth to twins or triplets.

They commonly have wattles and beards. Instead of wool, goats have a moderate growth of hair. Their tails are longer and typically point upward.

Goats are versatile in their feeding habits and can browse on shrubs, trees, and rough vegetation. They are raised for milk, meat (chevon), fiber (from specific breeds like Angora or Cashmere), and sometimes for land clearing or companionship.