How to Feed a Pet Goose: A Simple Guide for Beginners

Geese are smart, social, and surprisingly charming animals that can make great backyard companions. But if you’re keeping one as a pet, you might wonder: what do geese eat, and how can you feed them safely?

Feeding a pet goose isn’t too complicated, but it does require understanding their dietary needs to keep them healthy and happy. Let’s go through everything you need to know to feed your feathered friend properly.

1. What Do Pet Geese Eat?

Pet geese are herbivores — they mostly eat plants, including:

• Fresh grass

• Weeds and dandelions

• Leafy greens (like lettuce, kale, and spinach)

• Grains (like oats, barley, wheat)

Many pet owners also feed geese pelleted waterfowl feed, available at farm supply stores. These pellets are balanced in nutrients and great for regular feeding.

✅ Tip: Avoid feeding too much bread — it has little nutritional value and can harm geese over time.

2. How Often Should You Feed a Goose?

Geese love to graze throughout the day, especially if they have access to grass or a garden. If your goose can’t roam freely, offer food twice a day:

• Morning: Fresh greens or waterfowl pellets

• Evening: Grains or chopped veggies

Always make sure clean water is available. Geese drink a lot and use water to help them swallow their food.

3. Treats They Can Enjoy

Just like people, geese enjoy treats — but in moderation! Safe treats include:

• Chopped apples (no seeds)

• Watermelon (no rind)

• Corn

• Cooked rice or pasta

• Peas

Avoid feeding anything salty, spicy, or processed.

4. Foods to Avoid

Certain foods can be harmful to your goose:

• Bread (causes nutritional problems)

• Avocado (toxic to birds)

• Onion or garlic

• Chocolate or sweets

• Moldy or spoiled food

If you’re not sure if something is safe, stick to veggies and grains.

5. Feeding Tips for Healthy Geese

• Keep food clean: Avoid leaving wet or moldy feed in the bowl.

• Don’t overfeed grains — geese can get overweight.

• Let them graze in the yard when possible.

• Give grit (like small stones or oyster shell) to help digestion.

Conclusion: A Happy Goose Starts with Good Food

Feeding your pet goose can be a fun and relaxing routine. With the right diet of greens, grains, and clean water, your goose will stay healthy, active, and friendly.

Whether you keep one goose or a whole gaggle, remember: a well-fed goose is a happy goose!