Accidental Hero: After causing much trouble for the Ingalls, Fred scores points when he eats the rushes Charles had sold to Phineas Jenks, who'd forced him to sell it $3 dollars short, forcing Jenks to pay a higher price for extra rushes out of desperation to deliver his demand in time.
Breather Episode: Between the highly dramatic "Journey Into the Spring" and the tense, violent "The Bully Boys", this comedic episode serves as a lighter chapter in Season 3.
Extreme Omni-Goat: Fred causes plenty of trouble throughout this comic tale, when not butting people in the rear, he's seen chewing people's things, including Mary's homework and Mr. Edwards' moonshine.
Fire and Brimstone Hell: Most Christian teachings of the late 1800s emphasized fire and brimstone and fear of Hell. While Reverend Alden's usual teachings reflected the evolution of Christian preaching of the 1970s and 1980s, wherein fire and brimstone were de-emphasized, it was not unheard of for the kind and gentle preacher to deliver a fiery sermon. This episode was one such example, although delivered offscreen and Charles mentions it afterward. Said sermon was inspired by Reverend Alden being butted in the rear by the goat.
Last of His Kind: Rufe Parsons tries to pass his goat as special to Laura when she shows interest in buying it by claiming that he's the last of a noble lineage.
Pain to the Ass: Over the course of two days, Fred the "Friendly" Goat butts (in order) Rufe Parsons, Charles, Mr, Edwards, Doc Baker, Mrs. Oleson, and Reverend Alden.
