At Rafter O, our Mini Nubians are dam-raised and total lovebugs! While most dam-raised kids can be a little on the wild side without regular people time, our kiddos are handled with care (and cuddles!) from the very beginning. We’re there for every single birth—cheering on mama, helping dry off babies, clearing tiny noses, and making sure each little one gets their first precious sip of colostrum. Once everyone’s happy and latched, we step back and let the family bond in peace.

That first week is all about cozy bonding and gentle introductions to the world. The babies stay snuggled in their kidding pens with mom, but get plenty of playtime too! We bring them out into the barn alley and outside a few times a day to stretch their legs, soak up some sun, and of course—get in some quality human snuggles. It’s during these early days that their sweet, people-loving personalities really start to shine. We’re talkin’ cuddles, kisses, and allll the scratches. Spoiled? Absolutely.

After about a week, mama and babies rejoin the rest of the herd in the doe barn. This is when things get fun—and a little chaotic! Daily hangouts are key to making sure everyone stays friendly. Sometimes, a kid or two might be a little clingy with mom and shy at first, but once they see the other kids getting belly rubs and zoomies with the humans? They can’t resist jumping in!

And when we’ve got a big litter—like triplets or quads—there’s usually one little underdog who needs a bit of extra help at the milk bar. That’s where bottles come in, and let’s be real… bottle babies are next-level friendly. Like, “follow you around like a puppy” friendly.

But the VIP treatment doesn’t stop once they grow up! Our adult goats still expect their daily dose of love—head scratches, neck rubs, and, for the extra pampered ones, full-body massages (yep, they’re that fancy). Most of them even know their names and will come trotting over when you call. It’s the cutest roll call ever.

We’re super proud of the friendly, outgoing personalities our Rafter O goats have. Whether they’re kids or full-grown divas, they’re total sweethearts—and they’ll make you fall in love, guaranteed.