When we started our farm, we knew we wanted cattle—but not just any cattle. We needed a breed that fit our land, our family, and our values. After researching dozens of breeds, we discovered Irish Dexter cattle, and they've been the perfect fit for our small farm ever since.
The Right Size for Small Farms
Dexter cattle typically weigh 600-1,000 pounds—about half the size of commercial breeds like Angus or Hereford (1,200-1,800 pounds). This makes a huge difference for small farm operations.
Don't let their size fool you though—these compact cattle are incredibly productive. When grass-fed, Dexters have a meat conversion rate of over 60%, meaning more of your feed investment ends up on your table.
| Factor | Dexter Cattle | Commercial Breeds |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 600-1,000 lbs | 1,200-1,800 lbs |
| Feed Required | Less than half | Standard amount |
| Land per animal | 1-2 acres | 2-4 acres |
| Meat conversion | 60%+ | 55-60% |
Lower Costs, Same Quality
One of the biggest reasons we chose Dexters is the economics. When you're running a small operation, every dollar counts.
Feed Savings
Because they're smaller, Dexters eat less than half what commercial dairy or beef breeds consume. Our hay bill is significantly lower, and they thrive on our pasture grasses alone.
Infrastructure
Smaller cattle need smaller facilities. Our fencing, handling equipment, and shelter costs were all reduced because we didn't need to build for 1,500-pound animals.
Despite eating less, our Dexter cows still produce 1 to 3 gallons of rich, creamy milk daily—perfect for our family's needs without the overwhelming volume of a commercial dairy cow.
True Dual-Purpose Production
Most cattle are bred for either beef OR dairy. Dexters are one of the rare breeds that excel at both—and historically, they were even used as draft animals, making them a true tri-purpose breed.
Premium Beef
Dexter beef is known for its exceptional flavor and marbling. The smaller cuts are perfect for today's families, and the meat is naturally tender with a rich, beefy taste.
Rich Milk
Their milk has a high butterfat content—perfect for making butter, cheese, and cream. One cow provides plenty for a family without the waste of over-production.
Gentle & Safe for Families
Why Temperament Matters
When you have kids involved in daily farm chores, cattle temperament isn't just nice to have—it's essential for safety.
- Calm, docile nature makes daily handling less stressful
- Smaller size means safer interactions for children and elderly
- Less intimidating for first-time cattle owners to learn with
Our kids can walk among our Dexters without us worrying. They're curious and friendly rather than skittish or aggressive—a night-and-day difference from some larger, more high-strung breeds we've encountered.
Hardy & Low-Maintenance
Dexters have been bred for centuries in the rugged Irish climate, and that heritage shows in their remarkable hardiness.
- Easy calving — smaller calves mean fewer birthing complications
- Fewer health issues — less prone to metabolic disorders
- Lower vet bills — hardy genetics reduce veterinary interventions
- Climate adaptable — thrive in both hot Texas summers and cold winters
Perfect for Regenerative Farming
Their smaller stature decreases soil compaction compared to larger breeds. This preserves soil health, allowing nutrients, air, and water to reach the microbiome more effectively.
Dexters excel at converting native grasses and legumes into quality beef and milk. They thrive on 100% grass-fed diets, which aligns perfectly with our regenerative farming goals.
Healthier Soil
Less weight per animal means our pastures recover faster from grazing, supporting better grass regrowth and soil biology.
Efficient Grazers
Dexters are excellent foragers that utilize a wide variety of plants, reducing the need for supplemental feed even on marginal pastures.
The Bottom Line
Why We Recommend Dexters:
- Right-sized for small farms — less feed, less land, more manageable
- Lower costs — significant savings on feed, infrastructure, and vet bills
- Dual-purpose — premium beef AND rich milk from the same animals
- Family-friendly — gentle temperament safe for kids and beginners
- Regenerative-ready — 100% grass-fed with minimal soil impact
Ready to Try Our Dexter Beef?
We raise our Irish Dexter cattle on open pastures in Texas, 100% grass-fed with no hormones or antibiotics. Contact us to reserve your beef share.
Shop Dexter BeefFrequently Asked Questions
What makes Dexter cattle good for small farms?
Dexter cattle are ideal for small farms because they weigh 600-1,000 pounds (about half the size of commercial breeds), require less feed and land, have a gentle temperament safe for families, and are dual-purpose for both beef and milk production.
How much do Dexter cattle eat compared to larger breeds?
Dexter cattle consume less than half the feed of commercial breeds like Angus or Hereford. Despite their smaller size, they still provide substantial yields with a meat conversion rate of over 60% when grass-fed.
Are Dexter cattle good for beginners?
Yes! Dexters are perfect for first-time cattle owners due to their calm, docile nature, manageable size, and hardiness. They have fewer health issues than many other breeds and are easier to handle.
Can you get both beef and milk from Dexter cattle?
Yes, Dexters are a true dual-purpose breed. They produce high-quality, well-marbled beef and can also provide 1-3 gallons of rich, creamy milk daily. Some farmers even use them as draft animals, making them tri-purpose.
How do Dexter cattle help with regenerative farming?
Dexters' smaller size causes less soil compaction than larger breeds, preserving soil health and allowing nutrients, air, and water to reach the microbiome. They excel at converting native grasses into quality beef, supporting sustainable grazing practices.