what is a good small/hobby farm cow breed?

wantabefarmer · #1 03/14/14, 01:14 PM

I'd like to add a cow to our small farm. I have about one acre of pasture and have another 2 I'm fencing in. I know I would have to supplement with hay and grain. Any suggestions?

Dreamfarm · #2 03/14/14, 01:29 PM

angus lowline

MO_cows · #3 03/14/14, 02:21 PM

Cattle are herd animals, should have 2. 3 acres is really pushing it. It could end up 3 acres of bare dirt/tough weeds without careful management. Look at small breeds and rotational grazing.

Oakshire_Farm · #4 03/14/14, 02:29 PM

dexter.... you can get both milk and meat.

hickerbillywife · #5 03/14/14, 03:14 PM

I agree, Dexters maybe a dexter mini jersey cross if you want more milk

sammyd · #6 03/15/14, 04:52 AM

Normande or milking shorthorn would be my choice for dual purpose.

wantabefarmer · #7 03/15/14, 05:44 AM

Thanks for the responses. I think I'll wait and get my pasture area better prepared.

karenp · #8 03/15/14, 06:48 AM

Ditto on the Dexter, more low maintenance than a higher production Jersey. Mine does fine with a goat for company. Unless it is just a pet, you will be breeding her so you will have more than one soon enough. One disclaimer, because of the size you must be more selective about a bull, can be a challenge to get bred.

montysky · #9 03/15/14, 08:13 PM

Dexter would be my first choice, 2nd choice a Jersey or jersey x Dexter.

Not just telling you what I raise, which are BA and BBs. We are thinking about a Dairy Cow too.