Dexter is the smallest British breed of cattle. It is a dual-purpose breed, which means the animal is used for both meat and milk.
There are two recognized types of Dexter - short legged and long legged.

Dexters are about half the size of a traditional Hereford, and one third the size of a black and white Friesan milking cow.
The breed comes in three colours, usually black, but also red and dun.

Dexters are very good mothers, and look after their calves very well. They produce enough milk to feed 2 - 3 calves.

Dexters were once an endangered breed, but are not threatened at the moment.

Where do Dexter cattle come from?
Originally from the South of Ireland in the 1800s. Now found on farms across the UK.

Why do we keep Dexter cattle?
Dexters produce a rich milk, high in butterfat, which is very similar to milk from Jersey cows. They can produce 2 to 2.5 gallons (nearly 10 litres) of milk a day.

Average lifespan
20 years.