DEXTER FACTS AND FIGURESThe Dexter is the smallest breed of British Cattle. It is a dual-purpose animal producing excellent quality milk and beef. An average cow weighs 300-350 kg and stands 92-107cm at the shoulder. There are two recognised types of Dexter – short legged and long legged – each with their equal merits.
The breed comes in three colours – black, red and dun, and are naturally horned.
Dexters originated in South West Ireland and descend from the black, hardy, Celtish cattle. Dexters were introduced to England in 1882 and are now a thriving breed.
Dexters are a breed that are renowned for their adaption to varying and extreme climates, as well as different management systems. They have now become established all over the world.
Dexters are good mothers. Calves mature very early and heifers are ready to go to the bull at 18 months. Calving problems are rare and calves are up and about very quickly. Due to the dual purpose qualities of the breed - lots of milk and beef qualities - calves grow fast – Multisuckling or milking is not uncommon alongside rearing of the calf.
Average milk yields of a house cow – 8 to 10 litres per day with a high butterfat content (over 4%) and a protein content of 3.51% .
Dexter Beef – it has to be eaten to be believed ! – beef is of excellent quality and flavour, with good marbling. Steers can finish off grass at 20 to 24 months with a carcass weight of between 145 and 220 kg – killing out percentage of 56%
