Dexter
Dexters are the smallest breed of
cattle in America. They are dual purpose animals producing both
delicious meat and quality milk. Cows mature to 750-800 lbs. and 36-42
inches high at the shoulder. Bulls mature to 1000-1100 lbs. and 38-44
inches high at the shoulder. They usually are black but can be dunn (a reddish
brown shade).
This breed is a strain of the Irish Kerry. It was
developed in the south west of Ireland at the end of the eighteenth
century by a Mr. Dexter who wanted to breed a small animal that would be
suitable for dairy and beef purposes. They are very small cattle with a
broad, deep torso, short legs with noticeably angled back legs and
heavily
muscled hind quarters. Dexters are a dual purpose breed with well developed
udders and remarkable annual milk yield for their size. Some cows achieve an
annual milk yield which is 20 times their body weight. They are
undemanding and
long lived. Their small size makes them ideal for freezer beef.
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You'll find a list of Dexter Breeders, how to contact the Dexter
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breeders, and the USDA Market Report.
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