Dexters are small mountain cattle originally derived from the Celtic cattle of ancient Ireland. They are the smallest British breed of cattle. Also from these original indigenous cattle of the British Isles several other distinct breeds developed --Kerry, Galloway, Welsh Black, Aberdeen Angus. The Dexter and Kerry have probably remained the closest to the original since the other breeds have all been "improved" by crossing with other breeds imported into the British Isles.

 

Type:

Dual purpose (Meat & Milk)

Although Dexters are the smallest purebred bovine in the world, there are two types. A smaller short legged animal, that carries an abnormal cartilage growth gene "chondrodysplasia gene". And a proportionate legged animal that *may* not carry the abnormal gene.

 

Breed Characteristics:

 

Mature height (3 yr):

Cows - 36" to 44"

Bulls - 36" to 48"

Mature weight (3 yr):

Cows - 600 to 800 pounds

Bulls - 750 to 1100 pounds

 

Colors: Black, Dun, and Red

 

Head: White Horns with black tips, Some breeders are now offering polled (hornless) animals.

 

Milk: 1.5 to 2 gallons/day

 

Superior Qualities:

 

Docile

Hardy

Smaller lean cuts of meat

High feed conversion rates

Less damage to pastures, and handling yards

Early maturing

Easy calving

Long useful breeding life

Can produce enough milk for consumption

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Origins:

Irish Dexter’s