The Dexter cattle is a domestic breed known for its dual-purpose use in both meat and milk production.
Dexter cattle originated in Ireland. They are believed to have descended from smaller native Irish cattle that were carefully bred to be hardy.
The breed is named after Mr. Dexter, a land agent in Ireland who is thought to have developed or popularized the breed in the early 19th century.
Dexter cattle are considered a rare breed and were once listed as endangered.
Their numbers have improved in some regions due to growing interest in small-scale and sustainable farming.
Today, their conservation status can vary depending on the country, but they are generally regarded as a breed of recovery or minority interest rather than ordinary or at high risk.
Characteristics
Dexter cattle possess a combination of features that have not only drawn attention but also convinced more farmers and homesteaders to raise them, helping to secure their recovery from endangered status.
Physical Characteristics
Colors
The coat is usually solid black, red, or dun, and all these colors are equally appreciated.
A small amount of white may also appear on the reproductive organs, udder, or behind the umbilicus, and this is acceptable when registering the animal.
Light or dark hairs in the switch of the tail are also considered permissible.
Skin
The skin should feel soft and flexible, with a good texture when handled. It should not be too thin, and the hair should be fine, abundant, and silky.
Head
The head is short and broad, narrowing smoothly toward a wide muzzle. The jaw is wide enough to fit well-aligned teeth with a proper bite. The eyes are bright and noticeable, showing alertness and health.
Horns
Most of these animals have horns, but there are also a small number that are naturally without horns (polled).
The horns, when present, are of medium thickness and curve inward and upward.
Whether an animal is horned, dehorned, or polled does not affect its quality or value.
Face
The face is well-balanced, with a jaw wide enough to accommodate evenly placed teeth and ensure an even bite.
This structure supports healthy feeding habits and contributes to the animal’s overall symmetry.
Neck
The neck is short, deep, and thick, fitting smoothly into the shoulders. From the front view, the shoulders should appear wide, with noticeable depth through the chest, and the breast should extend well forward.
Shoulders
The shoulders are of medium thickness, full, and well-filled behind.
Body
The back is flat and wide across the loins, with well-sprung ribs and a straight underline. The hips are wide, and the quarters are thick, deep, and well-rounded.
Front and Back Legs
The legs are short, especially between the knee and fetlock, strong, and positioned correctly under the body, which should be as close to the ground as possible.
Udder and Teats
The udder is firmly attached, with high and wide rear attachments and a strong median suspensory ligament.
The four teats are of medium size, evenly spaced, plumb, and of equal length, ensuring functionality and ease of milking.
Testicles
The testicles should hang evenly and be of the same size, with four clearly defined teats placed evenly in front of the scrotum.
The sheath should be moderate in size and positioned close to the body, and the penis should fully retract into the sheath when not in use.
Size
This cattle breed is small in size.
Cows have a height ranging from 34 to 46 inches (86 to 117 cm), with most standing between 36 and 42 inches (91 to 107 cm) at the hip.
Bulls are typically taller, with heights ranging from 36 to 50 inches (91 to 127 cm), and the majority measuring between 38 and 44 inches (97 to 112 cm) at the hip.
Lifespan
They can live up to 25 years or more.
Their lifespan depends on factors like health, care, and environment. With proper management and attention, they often enjoy a long and productive life.
This longevity makes them a good choice from an economic point of view for those seeking animals that can stay productive and healthy for many years, providing consistent value over their lifespan.
Growth Rate
How fast do they grow?
This cattle breed is a slow grower.
They tend to focus more on steady development rather than rapid weight gain, which suits their dual-purpose nature for both milk and meat.
Calves can reach a good weight within 12 to 18 months, depending on their diet and management. As for their mature weight, this is achieved at 2.5 to 3 years of age.
Weight
Dexter cattle have a weight range of 700 to 1,000 lbs(320 to 450 kg).
A mature bull typically weighs between 1,000 and 1,500 lbs(450 to 680 kg), with an average weight of around 1,200 lbs(545 kg).
A mature cow generally weighs between 700 and 1,000 lbs (320 to 450 kg), with an average of about 700 lbs(325 kg).
At birth, calves weigh between 43 to 50 lbs (19.5 to 22.5 kg) and have a height of 41 to 43 inches (104 to 109 cm). Calves can achieve an average daily weight gain of 1.3 to 2 lbs (0.6 to 0.9 kg), depending on their diet and care.
Bear in mind that first-time heifers often give birth to smaller calves weighing 35 to 40 lbs (16 to 18 kg), while mature cows tend to have larger calves, weighing 55 to 60 lbs (25 to 27 kg).
Slaughtered Time
You can slaughter these cattle at around 20 to 25 months of age, when they typically weigh 600 to 750 lbs, particularly if they are finished on grass without supplemental feeding.
With their excellent meat-to-bone ratio, they achieve a killing-out percentage of 55%, making them an efficient choice for meat production.
| Category | 600 lbs (lbs/kg) | 700 lbs (lbs/kg) | 750 lbs (lbs/kg) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Live Weight | ~600 lbs (272 kg) | ~700 lbs (318 kg) | ~750 lbs (340 kg) |
| Hanging Weight | ~350 lbs (159 kg) | ~408 lbs (185 kg) | ~437 lbs (198 kg) |
| Retail Product Weight | ~296 lbs (134 kg) | ~345 lbs (156 kg) | ~369 lbs (167 kg) |
| Losses | ~92 lbs (42 kg) | ~108 lbs (49 kg) | ~118 lbs (54 kg) |
| Brisket | ~6.41 lbs (2.91 kg) | ~7.48 lbs (3.39 kg) | ~8.01 lbs (3.63 kg) |
| Short Ribs | ~9.38 lbs (4.25 kg) | ~10.95 lbs (4.96 kg) | ~11.73 lbs (5.32 kg) |
| Flank Steak | ~1.75 lbs (0.79 kg) | ~2.04 lbs (0.93 kg) | ~2.18 lbs (0.99 kg) |
| Sirloin Tip | ~9.01 lbs (4.09 kg) | ~10.52 lbs (4.77 kg) | ~11.27 lbs (5.11 kg) |
| Whole Loin Primal | ~45.60 lbs (20.69 kg) | ~53.20 lbs (24.13 kg) | ~56.50 lbs (25.63 kg) |
| Whole Chuck Primal | ~35.55 lbs (16.13 kg) | ~41.48 lbs (18.84 kg) | ~44.45 lbs (20.16 kg) |
| Pet Bones | ~14.55 lbs (6.60 kg) | ~16.98 lbs (7.70 kg) | ~18.24 lbs (8.27 kg) |
| Meat Trimmings | ~40.50 lbs (18.37 kg) | ~47.25 lbs (21.99 kg) | ~50.63 lbs (22.96 kg) |
| Liver | ~6.34 lbs (2.87 kg) | ~7.40 lbs (3.35 kg) | ~7.93 lbs (3.60 kg) |
| Tongue | ~1.26 lbs (0.57 kg) | ~1.47 lbs (0.67 kg) | ~1.58 lbs (0.72 kg) |
| Heart | ~1.69 lbs (0.77 kg) | ~1.97 lbs (0.89 kg) | ~2.12 lbs (0.96 kg) |
| Kidneys | ~1.09 lbs (0.49 kg) | ~1.27 lbs (0.58 kg) | ~1.37 lbs (0.62 kg) |
Chondrodysplasia
Dexter cattle can carry the chondrodysplasia gene.
Chondrodysplasia is a genetic condition found in Dexter cattle that affects bone growth, leading to shorter legs and a compact body.
It is often called the “bulldog gene” because if inherited from both parents, it can cause a non-viable calf with severe deformities.
Genetic testing can identify whether a Dexter is a carrier or a non-carrier.
Carrier or Non-Carrier Mean
Carrier
A carrier has one copy of the chondrodysplasia gene.
These animals usually have shorter legs and the traditional look of Dexter cattle.
However, if two carriers are bred together, there is a risk of producing a calf with two copies of the gene, known as a “bulldog calf,” which cannot survive.
Non-Carrier
A non-carrier does not have the chondrodysplasia gene.
These animals are slightly taller and more proportionate in size but still small compared to other cattle breeds.
Non-carriers cannot produce bulldog calves, even when bred with a carrier.
How chondrodysplasia influences these cattle? It influences the appearance of the cattle by affecting leg length and body proportions, impacts breeding outcomes by determining the risk of producing non-viable bulldog calves, and has economic and practical effects as farmers must plan pairings carefully.
Temperament and Behaviour
These animals are known for being docile and easy to handle, making them ideal for farmers and homesteaders, even those with little experience.
They have a calm and friendly temperament, which allows them to interact well with humans and other livestock, such as goats, sheep, and other cattle.
Naturally social, they prefer being in groups and often form strong bonds with members of their herd.
While their behavior is generally gentle, cows can show a strong maternal instinct, becoming protective of their calves to ensure their safety.
As efficient grazers, they adapt well to poor-quality land and are excellent at converting grass into energy. This ability makes them economical to maintain, particularly for small-scale farms.
Meat
The meat is valued for its rich flavor, tenderness, and health benefits.
It is rich in Omega-3, Omega-6, and Omega-9 fatty acids, as well as Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA), making it a healthier option compared to regular beef.
Many people find Dexter beef more satisfying, meaning they often eat smaller portions than they would with other types of meat.
The meat has a strong, beefy taste that is often described as savory with a deep, satisfying flavor.
It contains a small amount of flavorful fat, giving it a balanced taste.
As for the texture, it is tender without being too soft, making it perfect for steaks and roasts.
Milk
This breed can produce 2.5 to 3 gallons (10 to 12 liters) of milk daily per day.
This means about 805 to 966 gallons (3,050 to 3,660 liters ) per lactation (305 days). Some high-performing individuals can yield up to 3.7 gallons (14 liters ) daily or about 1,078 gallons (4,080 liters) per lactation.
Cows kept as house cows (for family use) usually produce 2 to 2.5 gallons (8 to 10 liters ) of milk daily, which adds up to 646 to 805 gallons (2,450 to 3,050 liters ) per lactation.
Dexter cattle are not specialized dairy animals, so their milk yield is lower than that of large dairy breeds.
The quantity of milk varies based on how the cows are managed and their genetic selection for dairy or beef traits.
Most of these cattle often produce A2 beta-casein milk. To be certain, testing individual cows is necessary.
The milk from Dexter cattle is of high quality, with a butterfat content of 4% or more and an average protein level of 3.5%.
One special feature of Dexter milk is its natural homogenization. The fat globules are smaller, making the milk easier to digest. Unlike milk from breeds like Jerseys or Guernseys, the cream separation in Dexter milk is less pronounced, which is particularly beneficial for cheese-making.
Raising
Feeding
You can feed these cattle grass during the warmer months, as they are efficient grazers and can thrive even on low-quality pastures.
Supplemental feed is usually unnecessary, except for lactating cows, growing calves, or during very harsh weather conditions. In such cases, you can supplement their diet with grains if needed. It’s important to observe the animal’s condition and adjust accordingly.
During winter, drier seasons, or harsh conditions, when fresh pasture is unavailable, you can feed them hay or silage.
To calculate how much hay you need during colder seasons, use the formula 3.5% of their body weight per day. This amount includes some waste that the cattle may produce while eating.
If you want to be extra cautious, you can go up to 4% of their body weight per day to ensure you have enough.
Always provide clean, fresh water and access to a salt lick year-round. A cattle drinks about 8–15 gallons (30–60 liters) of water daily, depending on the temperature and its milk production.
Environment
They do great in environments that provide outdoor access and ample pasture for grazing.
Climate
This breed is incredibly versatile and can be raised in temperate, cold, hot, and even wet climates with proper management.
They handle cold climates very well, thanks to their thick winter coat, which provides excellent insulation.
In hot climates, they can thrive just as well as in cold ones, provided they have the right conditions, such as access to shade and plenty of fresh water to stay hydrated.
In wet or humid climates, their lighter weight causes less damage to damp or waterlogged soils.
However, it’s important to rotate grazing areas to prevent overgrazing and provide dry areas to avoid hoof problems or other illnesses.
Shelter
These cattle are hardy and adaptable, but they still benefit from having shelter in certain weather conditions.
While they don’t always require extensive housing, providing them with a place to rest and escape extreme weather will keep them healthier and more comfortable.
In colder climates, a shelter provides them protection during harsh weather conditions, such as heavy snow, strong winds, or freezing rain.
A simple barn, lean-to, or windbreak can give them a break from the cold and prevent unnecessary stress or energy loss.
In hotter climates, shade is essential. These cattle need a place to escape the direct sun to avoid overheating and stay hydrated.
Trees, shade structures, or open barns work well for this purpose.
How many cattle per acre?
You can raise 2 cattle per acre.
This is a reasonable stocking rate because they are smaller and more efficient grazers than larger breeds, requiring less grass to meet their nutritional needs.
Breeding
Breeding this cattle breed can be a simple process if managed properly, especially if you already know whether your cattle are carriers or non-carriers of the chondrodysplasia gene.
These cattle reach sexual maturity at around 12 to 15 months of age. Heifers (young female cows) can be bred for the first time when they are physically developed enough, typically at 15 to 18 months. Breeding them too early can lead to health problems, so ensure the heifer is in good condition and ready.
They do not have fertility issues, so you can breed them naturally. Simply introduce the bull to the cow and allow them to mate.
A cow’s heat cycle lasts about 21 days, with the heat period (estrus) itself lasting 12 to 24 hours. During this time, the cow may show signs such as restlessness, mounting other cows, or allowing others to mount her. This is the ideal time to breed.
The gestation period for this breed is about 280 to 290 days (around 9 months), similar to other cattle breeds. They are known for easy births, rarely needing assistance. Their smaller calves help minimize complications.
These cows typically have one calf per pregnancy. They are excellent mothers with strong maternal instincts, and their milk production is usually more than enough to raise healthy, strong calves.
On average, a cow can produce 10 to 12 calves in her lifetime. Breeding should stop when her health or productivity begins to decline.
Chondrodysplasia and Its Impact on Breeding
The chondrodysplasia gene plays a significant role in the breeding process and must be carefully managed to avoid complications.
Carrier vs. Non-Carrier Breeding
- Carrier x Carrier: Breeding two carriers has a 25% chance of producing a bulldog calf, a 50% chance of a carrier, and a 25% chance of a non-carrier.
- Carrier x Non-Carrier: Breeding a carrier with a non-carrier ensures no bulldog calves, with a 50% chance of a carrier and 50% chance of a non-carrier.
- Non-Carrier x Non-Carrier: Breeding two non-carriers produces only non-carrier offspring, completely avoiding the bulldog gene.
Genetic testing is essential to identify whether an animal is a carrier or non-carrier.
Responsible breeding practices include avoiding carrier x carrier pairings to reduce risks and ensure healthy offspring.
Health Issues
They generally have fewer health problems compared to some other cattle breeds.
These cattle are susceptible to some general health problems as other breeds like parasites, bovive respiratory diseases, hoof problems, and Johne’s disease.
Why should you raise it?
This cattle breed is a good choice for homesteaders or small farmers who want to raise cattle but lack the space needed for larger breeds. With their smaller size and low food requirements, they are ideal for those seeking a manageable source of both meat and milk right from their backyard.
The price of cattle of this type ranges from $1,000 to $2,500.
They an produce a good amount of milk daily, making them perfect for families who want fresh milk, butter, or cheese without the need for a large-scale operation.
Another great advantage is their low-maintenance nature. These cattle require less attention and care than many other breeds, which is ideal for homesteaders who are busy with other activities or responsibilities.
It’s important to note that this breed is not suited for large-scale business operations. Their smaller size and production levels are better matched to personal or small family use rather than commercial farming.
Advantages and Disadvantages
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|
|
