The Accidental Smallholder Forum
Livestock => Cattle => Topic started by: Andy Harrison on July 30, 2013, 09:32:59 am
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Being relatively new to cattle keeping I am wondering whether using an Angus bull on my Dexter cow is sensible cross due to the difference in size. I intend to use the services of an AI firm but none of their information seems to tell you the size of the bull. She calved well this year with no problems with either the cow or the Dexter calf and her previous Dexter calf has grown well and thrived but I do have reservations using another breed on her. All the information I have been able to find suggests using a small Angus on a bigger Dexter cow. I couldn't tell you whether my cow is larger or smaller than average but I am sure she is the non-short variety. Any information regarding calving problems with this cross would be appreciated.
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I have been considering doing this cross on my dexter this year, still undecided......
With AI you can select an easy calving Angus if you ring and speak to them.
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Lots of information about this cross on the www.dextercattleforsale.co.uk (http://www.dextercattleforsale.co.uk) website. ;D
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No probs with Angus dexter crossing. we use the angus all the time, 38 calves this year with no problems due to crossing. heifers and all.
the obvious thing to say is you must use an easy calving bull, but i would think an AI firm will only offer that anyway.
as for cow size, just not a cow that has not grown well herself, so nothing that has not thrived due to being ill etc. if you have a normal healthy dexter it will be no problem.
used limo, charly, beltie. trying wagyu and hereford this year to.
you get a tonnes better calf that grows quickly and is really commercial. the heifers make great cows too.
dominic
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AIing 5 dexter this month, heifers are getting Elmwood MacKay dexter stuff and the cows are getting an easy calving Aberdeen Angus. Just don't put them on flush grass, rough ground is best.