They cannot handle a large heard.įirstly, if you don't plan on breeding with donkeys, it's best not to keep stallions. So keep this in mind when getting them if you want them for protection) They can help protect against a single canine attack, or 1 fox, etc. ( However, since miniature donkeys are smaller, they don't offer the same protection.

( More on this topic a bit lower in this blog post).Ĩ.) Donkeys are used as guard animals for cattle, sheep, and goats since they have a natural aversion to canines and will keep them away from a flock.

By placing the shadow of the cross across the donkey's back for all to remember the importance of God's humblest of creatures.ĥ.) Donkeys are very strong, sometimes even stronger than a horse.Ħ.) They have incredible memories and can remember you even if they have not seen you for a long time.ħ.) Donkeys don't like being kept on their own, although a single donkey will live quite happily with goats. There is a legend called the 'Legend of the Donkey's Cross.' It states that Jesus rewarded the donkey for his loyalty to Him when he carried Jesus into Jerusalem and stayed with Him at the crucifixion. The cross is a darker brown or black dorsal stripe running from the top of the donkey's back and across the shoulders. (It's usually recommended you keep 2 Jennies or a gelding and a Jennie.Ĥ.) Most donkeys will have a cross on their back.

They are like big dogs, and I just love them so much.ġ.) They are by nature, very loving and affectionateĢ.) They are known to live 25+ years if cared for well.ģ.) Males are called Jacks, and females are called Jennets. Hearing them hee-haw is so fun, and they definitely know when we are coming to give them treats. I must say they have been our easiest animals and have brought much love and laughter to our farm. So that’s a total of 6 very loveable donkeys! And very recently, we welcomed Fergus and Fiona. Then, in February of 2018, we added Chilli, and later on, Blossom and Honey joined the crew in the summer of 2020. We got Buddy back in December of 2017 when he was about 6 months old. At first, we looked for a regular-sized donkey, but I was hooked when I saw a miniature baby. Well, the honest first answer is because they are so cute! We had heard they would possibly help protect the flock, so we figured it would be fun to get one. These are all my thoughts based on the experience and knowledge we have gained over the last few years.

Always speak with a trusted vet when possible. Research diligently before making decisions for your donkeys. Please note that I am not a veterinarian.

Dunkey playing spooky