Table of Contents
Standing 40 inches tall and weighing 700 to 900 pounds, Dexter cattle are some of the smallest cattle in the world. Although size is the breed’s most distinguishing characteristic, Dexters are a useful and productive, multi‑purpose animal.
How much does a Dexter calf weigh?
Dexter cows are extremely maternal and because of their dual purpose qualities will milk well. Calving problems are rare and newly born calves are up on their feet very quickly with calves weighing 25-35 pounds at birth.
Are Dexter cows good for meat?
Dexter cattle are considered a tri-purpose animal. They are suitable for meat, milk, and also can be trained as oxen. These animals are very hardy and they can thrive in both hot and cold climates year round needing only a windbreak, shelter, fresh water and forage.
How much are Dexter cows worth?
Initial Cost A Dexter cow can be much more expensive to purchase than a conventional breed. It’s that whole supply & demand thing. You can easily expect to pay about $1500-$2000 for a Dexter cow.
How many pounds of meat do you get from a Dexter cow?
Dexter steers are typically between 750 and 800 pounds at harvest. Their hanging weight, (also called carcouse weight) is usually 55%-60% of their live weight. Actual butchering/packaging directions will make a difference to the final amount of meat received.
How much does a Dexter heifer weigh?
Standing 40 inches tall and weighing 700 to 900 pounds, Dexter cattle are some of the smallest cattle in the world. Although size is the breed’s most distinguishing characteristic, Dexters are a useful and productive, multi‑purpose animal.
How big is a Dexter bull?
According to the standards adopted by the American Dexter Cattle Association, the ideal three year old Dexter bull measures 38 to 44 inches at the shoulder and weighs less than 1000 pounds. The ideal three year old Dexter cow measures between 36 to 42 inches at the shoulder, and weighs less than 750 pounds.
What age can Dexter bulls breed?
Heifers mature young and can be put to the bull at 15 – 18 months of age. Dexters are noted for their longevity and can live up to 25 years and should breed regularly for 14 years or more.
How many acres does a Dexter cow need?
Care and requirements. Dexters don’t require a lot of living space. One to two acres will suffice, and since they’re lighter, they won’t beat up the pasture as bad. That’s important, because you don’t want their main food source trampled down.
How does Dexter beef taste?
The Japanese came up with the term umami, meaning savoury, and Dexter beef has that in spades. A big, beef flavour with a small amount of very tasty beef fat. Something you don’t get from the larger Continental breeds. There is also a tenderness without being too soft or mushy.
How many Dexter cows can you have per acre?
Regardless, 1 acre is plenty of room for two cows, and you can bring in any hay you need. If you bring in hay, you’re not only getting the feed value, but also the fertility that your cows are putting down.
Which cow has the best meat?
Angus: This is the most popular breed of beef cattle. Their meat quality is excellent and they provide 50 percent of their weight in the meat.
Is Dexter beef better than Angus?
Dexter (and lowline angus) are far superior to the bigger breeds on harder sites. They produce more meat per area, but in much smaller cuts. They have far less environmental footprint, in that they are a lot lighter and less likely to damage soil. And Dexters taste REALLY good!Jul 6, 2018.
How much is a Dexter steak?
PRICE LIST 2015 DEXTER BEEF Topside 14.95 25.50 Silverside 13.50 18.50 Slow Roast 9.90 11.00.
What is the smallest breed of cattle?
Bhutanese cows, like Vechur cows, are typically referred to as dwarf cows, as individuals of these breeds are bred to be small.
What are Dexter cattle good for?
Dexters are classified as a small, friendly, dual-purpose breed, used for milk and beef, but they are often listed as a triple-purpose breed, since they are also used as oxen. Management practices vary by breeder and country.
What is special about Dexter beef?
The Dexter is the smallest British breed of cattle. It is a dual purpose breed which means it is bred for both meat and milk. The breed matures early, making beef of exceptional flavour and quality with good marbling.
Are Dexter cows friendly?
They were considered a rare breed of cattle, until recently, but are now considered a recovering breed by the American Livestock Breeds Conservancy. The Dexter breed originated in Ireland. Dexters are classified as a small, friendly, dual-purpose breed; used for milk and beef.
When should I butcher my Dexter steer?
He is 18 months old. It seems that most of you are slaughtering around 24-27 months. My guy is really growing. I would like to avoid feeding him through the winter because I’ve heard they won’t gain much, and with feed prices, well you get the idea.
What is a mini Dexter cow?
The mini cows are one of the smallest breeds of cattle and do not need as much room to roam – or pasture to feed them, as regular size cattle. Most Dexters are primarily black, but some versions of the miniature breed come in either a dun or red fur tone. The Dexter cattle breed boast a lean mean and rich milk.
How long is a Dexter cow pregnant for?
As mentioned previously, Dexter cows have an average gestation of 283 days which is approximately 9 months and 13 days for quick calculation. Knowing the expected calving date of your cows or heifers makes preparing for calving season much easier.
Can a bull breed his mom?
Yes. This is called “line-breeding” and will result in the concentration of harmful genes faster than just about any other form of inbreeding.
