The Steps of Goat Aggression

[Nanno]

Ah, it's a miniature horse. How old is the goat? It's not unusual for a young goat to become aggressive with people and/or other animals as they mature. Does the goat have horns? If so, it could be a real danger to the miniature horse. Does the goat have other goat companions or only the pony? If he only has the pony to play with, then it's a sure sign your goat needs another goat companion (one the same size or bigger) that he can play with. A goat needs a playmate he can rear up and butt heads with and that won't run away when he does it. When he treats the pony like it's another goat, the pony doesn't know how to respond and becomes frightened. This reinforces the goat's aggressive behavior. He's also trying to treat people like they are other goats. He can't be allowed to do this.

My first recommendation is that if he has no other goat companions, get him one as soon as possible or find him a home where there are other goats. I don't think you're going to solve this problem without first giving your goat a companion who can be an appropriate recipient (and reciprocator) of normal goat behavior. If your goat does have other goat companions, then you'll need to separate the pony so he's not hurt or harassed. Then you need to get on your goat's case with a spray bottle. If he approaches you aggressively, spray him in the face with water while using a verbal reprimand to let him know he's naughty. Make sure when bringing food or treats that you don't give them until the goat backs submissively away from you. He should not bump into you, block you, or try to steal the food before you give it. Don't pet him or give him food if his hackles are up or if he's giving you the "hairy eyeball" or you will reinforce his bad attitude. Good luck! Let us know how it goes.