DOMESTIC GEESE

Domestic geese are intelligent, social, and engaging birds that have been companions to humans for centuries. Known for their strong bonds, playful personalities, and natural grazing habits, they thrive in safe, enriched environments where they have space to roam, access to fresh water, and consistent care. Whether for homesteads, educational settings, or as long-term animal companions, domestic geese bring life, personality, and a unique sense of connection to those who care for them.

COMMON DOMESTIC GEESE

Several species of doves and pigeons are commonly seen across North America. The two most familiar are the Rock Dove—often called the city pigeon—and the Mourning Dove, a native species known for its soft coloring and gentle call.

SEBASTOPOL GOOSE

(Anser anser domesticus)

Ornamental geese with long, curly feathers. Calm and social, they enjoy grazing and swimming, needing space to show off their plumage.

TOULOUSE GOOSE

(Anser anser domesticus)

Large, heavy-bodied geese. Gentle and sociable, calm in temperament, thriving with grazing areas and water access.

ROMAN GOOSE

(Anser anser domesticus)

Elegant, upright geese with a bill knob. Alert and active, suitable for ornamental purposes, guarding, or as companion birds.

Large and striking with a knobbed bill, African Geese are alert and protective but bond closely with humans. They thrive in spacious, safe environments with grazing and water.

african goose

(Anser cygnoides domesticus)

Medium-sized, gray-and-white geese with a docile, friendly temperament. Good layers and companions that enjoy grazing and swimming.

PILGRIM GOOSE

(Anser domesticus)

Upright, slender, and very vocal, Chinese Geese are lively companions and excellent flock guards. They need secure housing and consistent care.

chinese goose

(Anser cygnoides domesticus)

Large, white geese with a calm, friendly temperament. Excellent grazers and affectionate birds, often kept for meat or as companions.

EMBDEN GOOSE

(Anser anser domesticus)

Medium to large, warm-golden geese. Calm, friendly, and hardy, they enjoy grazing, swimming, and social interaction with people and other geese.

BUFF goose

(Anser anser domesticus)

FACT OR FICTION?

  • FICTION (mostly.) While geese can be protective—especially during breeding season—they are generally social, gentle, and bond closely with their flock and caregivers when raised with consistent handling and enrichment.

  • FACT. With good care, nutrition, and protection, domestic geese often live 20–30 years.

  • FICTION. There are many breeds with different sizes, plumage, temperaments, and purposes.

  • FICTION. While they enjoy swimming, geese only need access to clean water for drinking and occasional bathing.

  • FACT. Domestic geese are highly social and can bond closely with caregivers and flock mates.

  • FACT. Some breeds, like African and Chinese geese, are alert and protective, often acting as natural “watch animals.”

  • Fiction: Geese need room to graze, exercise, and socialize for their health and wellbeing.

Keeping geese is a rewarding, long-term commitment that requires preparation, space, and daily care. These intelligent, social birds thrive with secure housing, access to fresh water, proper nutrition, and room to graze and exercise. They form strong bonds with flock mates and caregivers, making companionship and protection essential to their wellbeing.

Before bringing geese home, we encourage you to fully understand their needs, lifespan, and seasonal behaviors. Thoughtful planning ensures a healthy, enriching environment for both you and your birds.

If you’re considering adding geese to your family, please visit our Adoption Page to learn about available birds and our placement process, and review our Care Guide for detailed housing, feeding, and health information. Responsible ownership begins with education — and we’re here to help every step of the way.

KEEPING GEESE

WHY EDUCATION MATTERS.

Domestic geese are intelligent, social animals that form strong bonds and thrive with thoughtful care. As natural grazers, they support sustainable land management while bringing life and personality to farms and homesteads. Beyond their practical value, they foster empathy, responsibility, and a deeper respect for humane animal stewardship.