Goat Weight Calculator

This Formula uses Heart Girth and Length from Front of shoulder to the pinbone

(Heart Girth x Heart Girth x Body Length) / 300 = Animal Weight in Pounds. This method provides a good weight estimate, but is not as accurate as a livestock scale. 

Materials Needed 

  • A flexible measuring tape (like a tailor's tape measure), in inches.

  • A calculator.

  • A notebook to record measurements and results. 

Measurement Instructions 

Ensure the goat is standing squarely on a level surface before taking measurements. It is often helpful to have a second person assist. 

  1. Measure the Heart Girth: Wrap the tape measure around the goat's body, just behind its front legs and over the top of the shoulders/withers. Pull the tape snug, but not so tight that it constricts the animal. Record this measurement in inches (Girth).

  2. Measure the Body Length: Measure the length of the goat from the point of the shoulder to the pin bone (the bony protrusion at the rear of the hip near the tail). Record this measurement in inches (Length). 

The Formula 

Plug your measurements into the following equation to calculate the estimated weight in pounds: 


Weight (lbs)=Girth (in)×Girth (in)×Length (in)300 [1.5.8]Weight (lbs) equals the fraction with numerator Girth (in) cross Girth (in) cross Length (in) and denominator 300 end-fraction [1.5.8]

Weight (lbs)=Girth (in)×Girth (in)×Length (in)300 [1.5.8]

Example:

If a goat has a heart girth of 36 inches and a body length of 33 inches: 

  1. Multiply: 36 x 36 x 33 = 42,768

  2. Divide: 42,768 / 300 = 142.56 pounds 

Important Considerations 

  • Accuracy: This method offers a close estimate but is not 100% accurate. The result can vary, especially for pregnant, obese, or extremely thin animals.

  • Medication Dosage: Because of potential inaccuracies, always consult with a veterinarian for precise weight determination when administering medication, as incorrect dosages can be dangerous.

  • Units: The formula requires measurements in inches to yield a result in pounds. To convert pounds to kilograms, divide the final weight by 2.2.

  • Consistency: For monitoring growth over time, use the exact same method and have the same person take the measurements consistently.