Breed Standard
The Dexter breed standard has been changed many times over the years to the point it no longer resembles the original. We have chosen to publish the old breed standard below exactly as it was first published in England in 1900 by the Dexter Cattle Society. We did not feel it was appropriate to make changes to it.
It should be noted that this early standard describes Dexters with Chondrodysplasia(dwarfism). It should also be noted that at the time the standard was written dun was not distinguished as being its own color separate from red.
It should be noted that this early standard describes Dexters with Chondrodysplasia(dwarfism). It should also be noted that at the time the standard was written dun was not distinguished as being its own color separate from red.
A STANDARD DESCRIPTION OF THE DEXTER.
Chondrodysplasia(dwarfism)
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1. The Dexter is essentially both a milk-producing and a beef making breed, and both these points should, in judging, be taken Into consideration. 2. Colour.--Bulls.-Whole black or whole red (the two colours being of equal merit). A little white on organs of generation not to disqualify an animal which answers all other essentials of this standard description. Cows.-Whole black or whole red (the two colours being of equal merit). Black with white on the udder, or red with white on bag. The extension of the white of the udder slightly along the inside of flank or under side of the belly, or a little white on end of tail, shall not be held to disqualify an animal which answers all other essentials of this standard description. . 3. Head AND Neck.--Head short and broad, with great width between the eyes, and tapering gracefully towards muzzle, which should be large, with wide distended nostrils. Eyes bright, prominent, and of a kind and placid expression. Neck short, deep and thick, and well set into the shoulders, which, when viewed in front, should be wide, showing thickness through the heart, the breast coming well forward. Horns.-These should be short and moderately thick, springing well from the head, with an inward and slightly upward curve. 4. Body.--Shoulders of medium thickness, full and well filled in behind, hips wide, quarters thick and deep and well sprung, flat and wide across loins, well ribbed up, straight underline, udder well forward, and broad behind with well placed teats of moderate size, legs short (especially from knee to fetlock), strong, and well placed under body, which should be as close to the ground as possible. Tail well set on and level 'with back. 5. Skin.--The skin should be soft and mellow, and handle well, not too thin, hair fine, plentiful and silky. 6. Dexter Bulls should not exceed 900 Lbs., live weight, when in breeding condition. Dexter Cows should not exceed 800 Lbs., live weight, when in breeding condition. |
Non Chondro
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