About Dexter Cattle

Dexters are descended from the black cattle of the Irish Celts. They were established as a distinct breed in the mid eighteenth Century. They remain the smallest, naturally occurring British breed, although other breeds have been “miniaturized” in recent years. More...

There are two types, “short legged” will be at the bottom of the height range, with “long legged” or “proportionate” Dexters somewhat taller. More...

Dexter cattle may be any of three solid colours:- black, red and dun. More...

Although a horned breed, most are dehorned (horns removed) and many nowadays are polled (naturally hornless). More...

Dexters are a dual purpose (meat & milk) breed, well suited to small acreages, where larger breeds are unsustainable. This productivity has resulted in increased numbers of registered breeders across Australia, since their placement of the rare and endangered list in the 1980’s, including DCAI member studs in Tasmania. All our members are registered members of Dexter Cattle Australia Inc. (DCAI) More...

Although small, Dexters cows can produce excellent milk (up to 10 litres daily), making them suited to supplying milk for the family, or for suckling an extra calf. Whilst on their dams, Dexter calves gain weight rapidly. More...

Depending on ‘type’ and pregnancy status, purebred Dexter cows reach a live weight of 250 - 400kgs, with cross-bred animals proportionately heavier. Bulls reach 450kgs by 3 years of age.

Dexter beef carcases average 55% dress out, and are typified by smaller, finer-grained cuts, suitable for the home freezer.

Registered Dexter cattle are listed in the DCAI Herdbook database and have a registration certificate issued by DCAI. The Registration certificate is transferred into the buyers name at the time of purchase. Buying DCAI registered cattle gives you the option to breed for stud, enjoy showing or for commercial purposes. More information about Membership and the DCAI Herdbook database can be found on the DCAI website: www.dextercattle.org.au

Why Dexter?

Even if you have only four or five acres, you can keep a few Dexters.Dexter size means they are less intimidating for those less experienced with cattle, as well as children and older people.
Their lighter weights place less pressure on pastures and fragile eco-systems.
It is easier to adjust stocking rates of Dexters compared with larger cattle.
A productive Dexter cow can be milked for the family, or an extra calf fostered on her.
Dexter meat is lean, tender, tastier and finer-grained being just the right size for the home freezer.
Dexters are early maturing, highly fertile and calve easily. They have long productive lives, calving into their late teens being common.
Dexter cows have excellent maternal characteristics.
Dexters are exceptionally easy to manage and maintain due to their inquisitive nature.
Dexters have a higher Eye Muscle Area (EMA) per kilo of body weight, giving more high value cuts of beef.

Frequently Asked Question's

How many Dexters can I run on 10 acres?
That depends on pasture quantity and quality throughout the year and how much of your 10 acres is used for the cattle. If these are good and you are prepared to supplementary feed when necessary, 4 - 6 Dexters is a realistic number. You can start with fewer, and calve them down until you find what is ideal for you. More...

How big do they grow?
Ideal heights for cows are 97cm - 107cm and for bulls
102cm - 112cm. Measurements are taken over the spine at the point of the hip. However, with all cattle there are variations. Dexters are REAL, productive cattle, (not miniatures) about two thirds the size of other British breeds. More...

What do I feed them?
Pasture is their staple food when it is plentiful. When it isn’t it should be supplemented with hay and/or regulated measures of proprietary feeds mixed with chaff. The cattle’s condition will indicate the amounts required. Mineral lick blocks should be used as feed supplements. More....

What facilities do I need?
Your Dexters need secure fencing, a clean and constant water supply, sufficient feed throughout the year and protection from extremes of climate (shelter belts of trees are sufficient). For necessary general and veterinary management, a small yard where they can be secured and handled, is essential. More...

Are they quiet?
Yes. Dexters are people friendly cattle and their size instils confidence with handling; regular contact will ensure they remain quiet . However, there are variations in ALL breeds and safe handling practices should be utilised.

For more information answering frequently asked Questions use this link to the FAQ section of the DCAI Website - dextercattle.org.au - Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get further support and advice?
Absolutely! For information about Dexter Cattle, Activities and Members in Tasmania contact our Group Secretary on Email: swnygwyntfarm@bigpond.com

For more information about becoming a member of Dexter Cattle Australia Inc. (DCAI), owning and registering Dexter cattle visit the DCAI website www.dextercattle.org.au