Our Irish Dexters

Dexters in the shade

Dexter cattle were originally developed in southern Ireland and later imported to the United States in the early 1900's. Irish Dexters stand between 36-42 inches at the shoulder when fully grown and are bred for both milk and meat. Mature 3 yr old bulls weigh about 1,000 lbs., mature cows no more than 750 lbs. These cattle come in 3 colors: black, red and dun. Irish Dexters have two body types: long-bodied and very short-legged or proportionally built with two subtypes- dairy (Kerry-type) and "beefy" ("stocky"). We have the latter with both Kerry and beefy builds. All types are accepted by the American Dexter Cattle Association (ADCA) and Purebred Dexter Cattle Association (PDCA). Both registries host an online pedigree available which is quite thorough as well as fascinating to read.

Beefy and dairy-type weanlings, 3 and 4 mos. old

Currently, we await one last calf for 2007. Our herd has doubled in size this year and we now can start a waiting list for prospective buyers for 2008.

Fan-C-Calpurnia enjoys being scratched

We can share by experience that Irish Dexters are calm, inquisitive and a joy to own. Seeing the calves playing in the fieldor the cows and bull running with the goats and llama is a sight. Dexters are quick to learn, not fussy and just the perfect size for smaller farms.

Fan-C-Joseph