A proper fitting pack saddle is crucial to a comfortable and happy goat. If a pack saddle does not fit properly the goat can experience pain and sores.
Starting from the front , the breast strap should sit on the brisket bone and not up high on the goat's neck. If the breast strap is too high on the neck of the goat it can restrict air intake. The breast strap should be slightly snug but never tight.
The saddle should be adjusted to fit comfortable over the goat's back. The saddle should be adjustable inwards or outwards to adjust to the goat's girth. If a goat is tall and skinny then the saddle should move inwards but if the goat is larger and robust ( chubby) then the saddle needs to adjust outwards to accomodate more girth. The saddle should never just sit on top of the backbone , instead it should sit over the backbone. The girth should be snug but not too tight to restrict movement. As the goat moves along it will be necessary to tighten the girth.
The breeching strap should sit in the largest part of the back leg muscle. It should also be snug but never tight. The breeching on a pack saddle keeps the saddle from moving forward while going downhills.
A proper fitting pack saddle is important to keep your goat comfortable while you hit the trail on your next adventure.