Miniature farm animals are becoming increasingly popular in the United States, with Americans showing more interest in owning pint-sized cows, goats, donkeys, and other diminutive farm animals. This trend is being driven by hobby farmers looking for easy-to-manage livestock and homesteaders who enjoy the idea of having a petite pig or scaled-down sheep as a pet. The COVID-19 pandemic has played a role in the rise of miniature farm animals, as more people turned to raising backyard chickens for fun and fresh eggs, sparking an interest in other small farm animals.
Animal breeders have reported an increase in sales of miniature farm animals, with platforms like YouTube and TikTok helping to raise their profile. Videos showcasing adorable mini animals have garnered millions of views, contributing to the trend. Martin Fysh, a vice president at Tractor Supply Co., notes that the popularity of mini farm animals reflects a natural progression among customers who started with backyard hen coops. Tractor Supply has expanded its selection of treats for both mini and regular-sized pigs and goats to cater to this growing interest.
While some people buy small farm animals as a stepping stone to owning larger ones, others are content with their miniature pets. Some owners turn their hobby into a side hustle by giving visitor tours, breeding animals, and blogging about their pastoral experiences. However, before diving into mini farm animal ownership, newcomers should consider the pros and cons, as these animals can be both cute and challenging.
Mini goats are among the most popular entry-level mini animals, with a significant increase in registrations with the Miniature Dairy Goat Association in recent years. Brittany Snow, a high school English teacher in Florida, owns several Nigerian Dwarf goats and has found them to be easier to care for and more cost-effective than larger animals. However, she notes that taking care of mini goats can be challenging and expensive, particularly with rising animal feed costs and a shortage of farm veterinarians.
Mini cows and donkeys are also gaining popularity, with some miniature cows weighing up to 600 pounds and mini donkeys standing 3 feet high or less. Social media influencers like Allie Sine have capitalized on the trend, breeding and selling mini cows to meet the growing demand. The Campion family in Tennessee purchased Southdown Babydoll sheep as „exotic“ pets, finding them to be excellent lawn trimmers and companions.
Miniature animals offer therapeutic benefits as well, with owners like Lisa Moad using miniature horses for therapy programs for older people and others. These animals can provide comfort and companionship, with their smaller size making them more manageable in therapeutic settings. Overall, the rise of miniature farm animals reflects a growing interest in sustainable living, self-sufficiency, and the joys of rural life in a pint-sized package.
