New here! What kind of beef cow is best?

[wynedot55]

kitty milks cows so she is here tween milkings.an when she is done for the nite.im a retired dairymen an run reg beefmasters as well as a crossbred cow herd.so im here unless im out doing something or have tobe gone.

 

[Farmer Kitty]

Thank you!
This has to be the most punctual forum I've ever seen! You post a question, then ten minutes later(or less) you've got an answer!
-Burgers

We try but, there are times when things are not quite so fast.

 

[WildRoseBeef]

We may be getting a beef cow pretty soon!!
I would like to know what kind would be best? I've heard that some kinds of dairy cows have just as good of beef as "beef" cows. (They're cheaper). Does anyone have any suggestions?
thanks!

- Tannassee Gal'

So we know your location...okay...but I really want to know is what do you want to do with said cow or "cow"? Are you just going to get an animal for the freezer only or are you going to have a little cowherd on your acreage for breeding, beef and/or milk?

If you are going to go with BB's then I'd suggest not using them for cows because of the double muscling gene that have been known to cause calving problems and such. That's for the purebreds: for the crossbreds like Holstein/BB crosses it might be/should be different. A BB is good if your just wanting to have freezer beef.

If you are going to go with only raising an animal for beef only and not using any stock for breeding purposes then a steer, particularly a crossbred like what I mentioned above or if you can't find anything an Angus or Angus cross calf (weanling or two) is great for giving you some good beef.

Now, on the other hand, if you are wanting to go with having a cow for raising a beefy calf and to have milk I suggest Dexter, Devon or a Red Poll or even an Angus cow (or two) would be alright for your situation.

Good luck and welcome.

 

[FamilyBurger]

Thanks for the advice!
We'll probably get a cow for freezer beef. No milk. My Dad doesn't think we'll get up and milk it. :/ BB sounds like the way to go!

-Burger

 

[GrassFarmerGalloway]

There is no 'best' breed of cow. Choose one that suits your climate, space requirements, needs, consumption, budget and preference. I am a big fan of the Belted Galloway, which is an exceptional beef cow and very docile, as well as QUITE pretty. They do well in colder climates, however, so if you're down south, then choose something like a Brahma.

 

[FamilyBurger]

What is a Brahma?
I know it's a cow, but I've never heard of one.

-burger

 

[GrassFarmerGalloway]

What is a Brahma?
I know it's a cow, but I've never heard of one.

-burger

They are a mostly southern-climate cow. Usually all-white, they are horned, used for beef and have a hump on their backs. They are fly-resistant, I believe.

I'm no expert, I hope someone more knowledgeable about Brahmans can help you.

 

[wynedot55]

yes brimmer are a southern climate cattle.they can withstand the heat in the south.

 

[FamilyBurger]

Does this mean I will need to get it de-horned?

-burger

 

[Farmer Kitty]

Does this mean I will need to get it de-horned?

-burger

If it has horns, we do recommend you have it dehorned, yes. It's a saftey issue.