question on breeding Dexters and Jerseys

[Menglish]

Ok my sister is getting a Jersey cowXcalf pair to milk. We were talking about using my Dexter bull to breed her back. My sister's vet said you have to be careful with that cross. Something about the Dexter's head being to big for the Jersey's pelvis. I'm trying to grasp how a cow that normally gives birth to a 75 - 80 lb calf (guessing here...maybe they are smaller?) could have a problem when bred to a breed that throws 40-50 lb calves.

What do you think?

[francismilker]

Never heard of such a thing. I think the cross is pretty common and called a belfair. As far as calving size, the jersey would normally throw a calf smaller than 75-80lbs. though.

[65284]

Total nonsense! Your sister needs to find a new vet ASAP, preferably one that is familiar with large animal vetting. Her's is obviously a doggie and kitty vet.

This is an old cross, folks have been making it for years. I have several in my pasture even as I type this.

Jerseys have a remarkable ability to calve with little or no trouble, even calves sired by a large breed bull.

[copperhead46]

That vet doesn't know a Dexter from a big headed Angus.........Dexter babys are not big headed, thats why lots of breeders use them on first calf heifers.
P.J.

[Menglish]

Thanks.

Mike