Newbie

Bubbas Boys · #1 12/23/13, 07:39 AM

So we are new to homesteading and are wanting a milk cow. We have a family of 7, 5 boys and Mom and I. We drink a lot of milk. haha. We are considering a dexter because of the size and space. We have plenty of acreage but not much fencing yet. If we arenwilling to buy hay ( also cut our own) can they stay on a 1/2 acre lot with good shelter. What would we have to do to get jersey instead. Hows the beef from a jersey. Need lots of advise and even the walk through on how it works. Thanks.

haypoint · #2 12/23/13, 08:17 AM

Personally, I prefer Jersey. But that is partly due to the fact that every Dexter I've seen was wild as the wind. I think an acre would be enough for either Dexter or Jersey. A lot depends on drainage, fertility, what is growing, length of season.

MCJam · #3 12/23/13, 08:28 AM

Being new to cows, I would highly reccomend getting a cow that is already in milk and learn to milk it at the farm where you purchase it. Mostly to make sure that it is of a good temperment for a beginner and that you are indeed able to handle and milk her. The breed in my opinion is not as important as temperment for a beginner. It is definetly worth it to spend more money on a quality animal from a reputable farm than try to save a few bucks by purchasing at an auction or buying a young animal that you cannot already milk before purchase. "Buy Quality and you only cry once..." So, go to your local farmers and homsteaders and find someone willing to take the time to help you get started. You don't need a cow with the best pedigree, or top production.....just a nice older safe animal with a big heart.

You want your first cow to be a great experience.

karenp · #4 12/23/13, 09:07 AM

If your boys drink milk like mine you may want 2 Dexters, or a Dexter and a lower producing Jersey.

haypoint · #5 12/23/13, 09:45 AM

2 or 3 gallons of milk and a pound of butter every day should supply your family and is possible from a single jersey.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jersey_cattle

Delion · #6 12/23/13, 04:52 PM

Check with people keeping cows in your area and ask them how much it pasture they are using for their cattle. You have enough winter where you are that you'd need to put up feed for the winter.

springvalley · #7 12/24/13, 02:42 PM

I`m in Northern Illinois, I have Jersey`s, like them very well. An acre or so should work with good grass on it, but you will need hay, Illinois is dead of winter right now, I have 8 in. of snow how much do you have? And all those boys can polish off alot of milk, butter and ice cream. > Thanks Marc