Livestock and specialty animal farm loans: SBA options
All Other Animal Production · NAICS 112990 · Program that usually fits: 7(a)
This category covers animal farms that don't fit the main livestock codes. That includes bison, alpacas and llamas, deer and elk, rabbits, worm farms, dog breeding and mixed livestock operations where no single species dominates. Loans usually fund land, barns and fencing, breeding stock and working capital. SBA 7(a) can do it, but many farmers also look at USDA Farm Service Agency loans. Lenders focus on proven markets for the animals or products and the farm's track record of profit.
Who qualifies
For-profit farms and ranches raising animals not classified elsewhere, which SBA treats like other agricultural businesses for size purposes. Lenders want farming experience, records of animal sales and any state licenses that apply, such as kennel or captive cervid permits. Hobby farms without real business income won't qualify. Operations that mainly raise animals for speculative resale, or that rely on land appreciation rather than production, are hard to finance. Animal welfare compliance is reviewed for breeders.
Which SBA program fits
7(a) for land and buildings
A 7(a) loan can finance farmland, barns and fencing for up to 25 years when real estate is the main use. Equipment can be bundled into the same loan, with a blended term.
7(a) or Express for stock and equipment
Breeding stock, handling equipment and working capital are financed on shorter terms, typically up to 10 years. Smaller needs under $500,000 can go through SBA Express for a quicker decision.
Compare with USDA FSA
USDA Farm Service Agency direct and guaranteed loans are built for agriculture and can be a better fit for beginning farmers. Ask lenders whether they offer FSA loans so you can compare the two.
What borrowers use the money for
- Farmland, pasture and fencing
- Barns, kennels and handling facilities
- Breeding stock and herd expansion
- Feed, veterinary costs and working capital
- Processing or on-farm retail equipment
Typical loan amounts, down payment and terms
Loans to specialty animal farms usually range from $100,000 for stock and equipment to $1 million or more when land is included. Equity is at least 10% for start-ups and purchases, and lenders often ask more for agricultural start-ups. Land and buildings can be financed up to 25 years, while livestock and equipment run 10 years or less.
What lenders look at for a specialty livestock farm
Lenders want to see established buyers for the animals, meat, fiber or other products, since niche markets can be thin and prices swing. They review several years of farm tax returns, herd records and feed costs. Livestock is weak collateral because values change and animals can die, so lenders lean on land and the owner's personal assets. Disease risk, insurance and state rules, like chronic wasting disease controls for deer and elk, are part of the review.
Example: a $350,000 loan
At today's maximum variable 7(a) rate of 11.50% over 10 years, the payment would be about $4,921 a month. Most well-qualified borrowers get a lower rate. Try your own numbers.
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Answer four questions and see SBA lenders that fit your state, loan size and industry, with your maximum rate. Compare at least two quotes before you sign. Rates move monthly: check current SBA loan rates and the 504 rate.
Today's rate caps
These are the SBA's maximum 7(a) rates with prime at 7.00%. See current SBA loan rates and SBA 504 rates for the full picture.
| Loan amount | Maximum spread | Maximum variable rate today |
|---|---|---|
| $50,000 or less | Prime + 6.5 | 13.50% |
| $50,001 to $250,000 | Prime + 6.0 | 13.00% |
| $250,001 to $350,000 | Prime + 4.5 | 11.50% |
| Over $350,000 | Prime + 3.0 | 10.00% |
Related industries and lenders
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Questions about livestock farms loans
What farms fall under All Other Animal Production?
NAICS 112990 covers animal farms not classified elsewhere, such as bison, alpaca and llama, deer and elk, rabbit, worm and dog breeding operations, plus mixed livestock farms where no single animal accounts for most of the revenue. Cattle, hogs, poultry, sheep, goats, horses and aquaculture have their own codes.
Can a farm get an SBA loan?
Yes. Agricultural businesses are eligible for SBA 7(a) loans if they are for-profit and meet the size standard. Many farmers also apply to USDA's Farm Service Agency, which runs loan programs designed for agriculture. Some lenders offer both.
Can I get an SBA loan for a dog breeding business?
Yes, a licensed commercial breeding operation can be eligible. Lenders want to see business income, state or federal kennel licenses where required, and clean inspection history. They will also look at how you sell puppies and whether local rules limit your operation.
Can an SBA loan buy livestock?
Yes. Breeding stock can be financed with a 7(a) loan, usually on a shorter term than land. Lenders know livestock values change, so they often want additional collateral such as real estate or equipment. Herd records and insurance help the case.
Is an SBA or FSA loan better for a small farm?
It depends. FSA loans often have lower rates and are designed for beginning farmers, but have their own limits and paperwork. SBA 7(a) loans through banks can be faster and larger. Many farmers ask their lender to compare both.
Sources: SBA 7(a) terms, conditions and maximum variable rates; Federal Reserve H.15 selected interest rates (bank prime loan rate); November 2026 SBA 504 debenture pricing, as published by CDCs; SBA FOIA 7(a) and 504 loan-level data.