Why we chose Dexter cattle
We didn’t set out searching for a small breed of cow. (By the way, Dexter cattle are not dwarf cattle. They are the smallest full size breed. In our opinion, this eliminates some of the possible genetic issues seen in dwarf or hybrid cattle.) But when Marilyn ran across Dexters in our search some obvious advantages jumped out at us.
Small stature – Dexter cows range from 600 to 800 lbs while bulls will usually go from 900 to 1200 lbs. This is significantly smaller than standard breeds. It means they need less feed or hay, have less negative impact on the pasture, and are less intimidating to people who are new to cattle. Plus they’re just so darned cute. One thing we have noticed is there are frequent claims that you can run one or even two Dexter cattle per acre. We don’t agree. If you have really lush grass and rotate religiously it can be done, but the first time you’re hit with a drought or any other pasture problems you’re going to be buying extra hay. Two acres per cow is a much more realistic number.
Docile – Dexters are known for being docile. We have found this to be true. Even our big bull, although he isn't interested in being petted, is not aggressive at all. He is gentle with the cows and especially with small calves, allowing them to share the treat bucket with him. When our cows give birth I go check on the the calf within an hour or so, unless something needs attention sooner. The second day I catch the calf and carry it to the barn for an ear tag and pulling tail hairs for genetics testing. I've never had a momma cow get aggressive even when I'm carrying their calf. They follow along and they may complain loudly but that's it. We can walk up to most in the pasture and pet them and check them over. Note: if you're going to work your calves this young catch them on day two. Because you won't be able to catch them on day three!
Easy birthing – This was a big deal for me. Having been raised around cattle and livestock I was all too aware of what birthing problems mean to the breeder as well as the cows themselves. So far we have had zero birthing issues. We did have one first time momma who birthed fine but wasn’t getting the part about nursing. We put her in the squeeze chute after about 30 minutes of trying to get her to let the calf nurse and put the calf on the teats. Momma almost immediately got the message and within a few minutes we released momma and baby and they were fine.
Dual purpose – I’ve milked cows and I will again if I have to but it’s not my favorite thing. That said, it’s really nice to know that if push came to shove our cows make great milk cows. As a breeder we also know this is important to some of our customers. Dexter beef is some of the finest in the world and knowing our beef is grass fed is important to us as well as our beef customers. Dexters are actually triple purpose because they can be trained as draft animals. That’s not in our plan, but it’s good to know it’s an option. You never know when you might need a hay burner ride instead of one of those gas or diesel rigs.