HISTORY OF THE AMERICAN DEXTER CATTLE

The Dexter Cattle originated in south west of Ireland at the end of the eighteenth century. It was introduced into England in 1882. Although it is believed they came to the United States earlier, the first recorded importations arrived between 1905 and 1915 and numbered over two hundred head.

Dexters are one of the naturally smallest breeds of cows and have not been miniaturized by breeding as have other miniature breeds. The Dexter is a dual purpose breed, with both beef and dairy qualities. They are a hardy animal, thriving in both hot and cold climates with little difficulty. They give birth easily, are good foragers and are excellent mothers. Dexters generally have a very good temperment and are highly intelligent. This combined with their small size makes them easy to handle and ideal for small acreage.

A Dexter cow can yield between 1 1/2 to 2 1/2+ gallons per day. The meat is excellent and the cuts are small in size in comparison to the larger breeds.

Dexter cattle are listed as rare by the American Livestock Breeds Conservancy. Although almost extinct they have made a remarkable comeback with small acreage farmers around the world.

BREED STANDARDS

Cows measure between 36 and 42 inches in shoulder height at three years of age, and weigh approximately 750 pounds. Bulls are slightly larger at 38 to 44 inches shoulder height, and weigh in around 1000 pounds. The breed comes in three colors: predominantly black, but also red and dun. They can be horned or polled.

Our newest sire Simeon with his sire Redfire

The photo to the left is a very outdated photo of Simeon. This space is being reserved for a current photo.

The Cows

Our previous sire - Modoc

Glenn Land Mr ModocMan
DOB: 3/26/2000
Located at our California ranch
Sire: Llanfair's Polgaron - Pedigree
Dam: Glenn Land Modoc Girl
This bull has been sold but I am keeping the information on him since we do still have his daughters. Although an older experienced guy, he tested excellent on his last semen test with an 80% motility. He is an easy keeper with respect for fences. He is polled.

More pictures to come