Begin with Your Breeding Goal
Decide whether you need maternal replacements, a herd sire, beef-oriented genetics, polled status, a particular size range, or cattle suited to a specific forage system. Buying a popular pedigree without a defined purpose makes evaluation harder.
The Dos Lobos Breeding Goal
We desire to keep our program centered around grass-only, structurally sound, moderate-framed, beefy Dexters with excellent udder structure, mothering ability, temperament, and an enjoyable eating experience as beef for both ourselves and our customers.
Evaluate Structure and Movement
Inspect feet, claws, pasterns, hocks, knees, topline, body capacity, udder or testicles, and movement. Look at the animal on level ground and request current video when an in-person inspection is not possible.
Review Fertility, Health and Temperament
Ask about calving history, rebreeding, udder function, bull fertility information, illness, treatments, parasite management, disposition, handling, and any known limitations. Match the animal to your facilities and skill level.
If you're new to Dexters or cattle in general, the easiest thing to do is start with what's available in your area, but the right thing to do is find a mentor who is willing to let you see their herd and show you first hand what to look for and what to avoid. Another great place to start is by going to the annual ADCA conference when it's in your region. It's a great place to meet other breeders and learn what different breeders look for in cattle.
Verify Pedigree and Testing
Confirm identity, registration status, parentage when relevant, genetic conditions, color or horn status claims, and any carcass or tenderness testing. Understand what each document proves and what it does not. G5 (5 documented generations) is the most sought after no matter what else the animal has to offer and will be listed as such on the pedigree certificate. Some breeders add in additional genetic testing, and others will not do extra testing. It's up to you to decide what you want your standards to be and to buy from breeders who can help you meet your herd building goals. Every breeder has the right to say no to extra testing, including us.
Complete the Purchase Carefully
Read the sale terms, transport requirements, health paperwork, deposit policy, and transfer process before paying. Review our purchase process and transport guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I buy registered Dexter cattle?
Registration is valuable for verified pedigree and breed records, but the right choice also depends on structure, fertility, health, temperament, and goals.
What should I ask for before buying a bull?
Request pedigree, identity, health history, structure and movement information, fertility or breeding-soundness documentation when applicable, and known genetic tests. Trich tests are also a requirement before sale in the state of Texas. Other states have additional rules around Trich testing, so check your state's import rules before buying a bull from out of state.
Can photographs show structural problems?
Some issues are visible, but current video, movement, multiple angles, records, and hands-on inspection are more reliable.
Is the smallest Dexter always the most desirable?
No. Functional size should support health, fertility, calving, grazing, and production rather than chasing extreme smallness.
