Training a Stubborn Bull Calf

[LadyIsabelle2011]

Don't bother with milk replacer, or trying to milk the cow, you'll waste time, money, and try to get hurt in the process.

I'm going to assume that his dam is halter broke, if so, then it will be easy to break the calf to lead by following her around

If she is not halter broke- then put her in a pen, and keep the calf separate == only to lead him to her 2 or 3 times a day. This will get him broke to lead pretty quickly-- like 2 or 3 days tops.

X2 I know nothing of cattle but the last part sounds like an excellent idea That way he gets rewarded for walking with you and learns that where ever you go there is something good

 

[LimoGirl]

Don't bother with milk replacer, or trying to milk the cow, you'll waste time, money, and try to get hurt in the process.

I'm going to assume that his dam is halter broke, if so, then it will be easy to break the calf to lead by following her around

If she is not halter broke- then put her in a pen, and keep the calf separate == only to lead him to her 2 or 3 times a day. This will get him broke to lead pretty quickly-- like 2 or 3 days tops.

She is not halter broke and she has a tendency to run through fences if i take the baby away... I could keep him in a double stall that we used to use for mares foaling. She cant get in there (knock on wood) He is actually feeding off of 2 cows right now and he is the fastest growing calf i have ever had, would the milk only 3 times a day stunt his growth? Do i put hay in with him or just let him be? BTW- hay is VERY expensive where i am right now, $60+ a round bale!!

 

[LimoGirl]

Well, i milked her! i let the calf out to have a drink and gave her some food... I only got a little bit but i made it into cheese, or should i say a cheese curd its about the size of my fingernail.

Kind of fuzzy but my camera on my phone isn't very good. I am very proud lol

 

[Hillsvale]

see... lol, still not trying that on my highlands!

 

[LimoGirl]

Lol I wouldn't either, I was lucky that I didn't get kicked! Don't think that I am going try that again

 

[Cricket]

Limo-cuisine! And thanks for the 'not going to do it again' comment--saves us old farts from worrying and fussing!

 

[greybeard]

My neighbor milked several of his Charlais all the time till he finally broke down and bought a Jersey.