Ram vs. Goat: Horns, Tails, Temperaments and More

By: Nico Avelle  | 
ram
You can immediately tell by the horns that this is a ram. Scott Suriano / Getty Images

Though often confused, rams and goats are two distinct animals with different traits, behaviors, and roles in livestock farming. When comparing ram vs. goat traits, it helps to start with a clear understanding of what each term means.

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What Is a Ram?

Adult male sheep are called rams. Sheep are domesticated hoofed mammals raised primarily for their wool, meat (mutton), and milk. Female sheep are called ewes, and young sheep are lambs.

Rams are known for their large, curved horns and thick, wool-covered bodies. Rams tend to be stockier with shorter legs and denser coats compared to goats.

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Rams are especially aggressive during the breeding season and will head-butt other males to establish dominance. This head-to-head behavior is common among rams competing for females.

What Is a Goat?

Goat
This fella looks way too mellow to be a ram. Tara Moore / Getty Images

Goats are a separate species of livestock entirely. Male goats are often called bucks, and female goats are does.

The average goat has a leaner body, shorter fur-covered coat, and a curious nature. Goats tend to be more independent and exploratory than sheep.

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Goats are excellent foragers and will eat grass, bushes, trees, and even bark. Their browsing habits make them useful in clearing pastureland.

Goat horns vary by breed but are usually narrower and more upright than ram horns. Goat tails also typically point upward, while adult sheep tails point downward and are often docked.

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Key Differences Between Goats and Sheep

TraitRamsGoats
BodyRams are stocky with thick woolGoats have more angular bodies with fur
HornsThe iconic horns of a ram spiral outwardGoat horns are straighter
TailRams’ tails hang downGoat tails point up
LegsRams are stockier with slightly shorter legsGoats have longer legs relative to body size
HeadRams have broader heads and deeper foreheadsGoats have relatively narrow heads

In terms of coat, sheep have wool that's sheared for fiber, while goats have fur. Some goats, like the Angora or Cashmere breeds, are valued for their fine hair.

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Behavior and Temperament

Goat with kids
Goats can hang out in petting zoos. Rams, not so much. Tara Moore / Getty Images

Goats are known for their curious and social behavior. They often interact with humans, climb structures and even nibble on objects.

Rams, on the other hand, can be territorial, especially during rut. Rams typically weigh more and have thicker skulls and heavier horns, adaptations that support their head-butting behavior during fights.

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Both animals are prey species and exhibit herd behavior, but goats are more alert and nimble, while sheep prefer to stay in tightly grouped flocks.

Diet and Feeding Habits

  • Sheep: Grazers that eat grass and low-growing plants
  • Goats: Browsers that eat leaves, bark, and twigs

Rams and goats both require good pasture and may be supplemented with hay or grain depending on season and nutritional needs. Goats are more likely to eat from elevated sources or trees, while sheep prefer ground-level feeding.

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Breeding and Reproduction

Rams are used to breed ewes and often kept separate except during mating season. Goats breed with does, and both bucks and rams can become aggressive around other males.

Farmers often manage breeding cycles to avoid unwanted pregnancies and maximize food and wool output.

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Lambs and kids (baby goats) are typically born in spring. Proper management of breeding season ensures healthier offspring and optimal herd size.

Livestock Value and Uses

  • Rams: Raised for wool, meat and breeding
  • Goats: Raised for milk, meat, fiber and brush control

Goat milk is commonly used in cheese and soap products, while sheep milk is more niche. Meat from goats is called chevon or cabrito; from sheep, it's called lamb (young) or mutton (older). Both provide valuable sources of food and clothing around the world.

We created this article in conjunction with AI technology, then made sure it was fact-checked and edited by a HowStuffWorks editor.

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