Miniature cows have seen a tremendous upsurge in popularity among homesteaders seeking ways to become self-reliant. Homesteaders with limited pasture space may require low-stress animals like cows to manage livestock more effectively or want the cute factor of having one in their garden.
Miniature cattle are ordinary cows that have been selectively bred to be one-third to one-half the size of standard-size ones, such as Herefords. A miniature Hereford stands 42 inches at its hips and weighs about 1,000 pounds as an adult. Due to their smaller size, miniature cattle require significantly less acreage than standard-sized varieties - ideal for people looking for just a few animals for their vegetable garden or as 4-H projects or show animals at county and state fairs.
Some miniature cattle breeds, like the Dexter of Ireland and Vechur from Kerala in India, are centuries-old traditional varieties. Others were created by selecting purebred cows with desired traits and crossing them with bulls from another breed to reduce the height and increase conformation while simultaneously decreasing size. Reputable breeders strive to keep conformation intact while downsizing breed sizes.
Miniature cow herds require a well-ventilated barn with sufficient bedding to stay warm and dry during winter, while grass-fed herds provide plenty of milk, which owners often use in cheese and butter production. Remember that milk production varies from season to season and that individual animals produce different quantities. Also, be mindful that cows release methane while digesting their food, which may diminish air quality inside a barn.
