Small Cattle in Australia

SMALL CATTLE BREEDS

With the possible exception of full sized black Angus cattle, the most popular cattle breeds on Australian small farms are the purpose bred small breeds.

There are many small cattle breeds including Austrlian Lowline, Dexter, Miniature Galloways, Miniature Hereford and Square Meaters. The beautiful Belted Galloways are also popular in the front paddocks of small farms.

There are a number of advantages for small cattle breeds on small farms. The first and most obvious benefit is that you can fit more small cattle onto a small farm. Small cattle breeds can also be more docile and a small bull is not going to do as much damage to your big toe if it gets trodden on in the cattle yards.

While the ‘professional’ cattle industry is yet to take small cattle breeds seriously, small cattle are beginning to make inroads at cattle judging competitions. Because cattle are often sold with the price based on the weight of the carcase, small farmers can sometimes make a similar return from their small cattle to their bigger cousins.

Small cattle breeds do require similar infrastructure as full sized cattle, although perhaps not as big and sturdy. People wishing to raise small cattle should ensure their small farm not only has the infrastructure they will need but also pastures and water supplies capable of feeding and watering cattle.