Old World Jerseys

[chicnbuns]

Is anyone familiar with OWJ's? Other than purity and prestige, are there benefits from owning these vs Dexters or Jersey/Dexter cross? My hubby and I are starting a homestead farm and are looking at what cows to purchase....we're thinking mini sized is the best way to go....more expensive up front, but more cost effective in the long run.....?

 

[Heavenly Springs Farm]

I don't know much about the old world jerseys, but I love my mid-size mini Jersey. I have been told that the old world jerseys are smaller than the other jerseys. I think size does matter. I love that my girl is small. She is very easy to work with. I was raised show Milking shorthorns. They are huge and a lot stronger than my little girl.

 

[MrsPratt]

Is anyone familiar with OWJ's? Other than purity and prestige, are there benefits from owning these vs Dexters or Jersey/Dexter cross? My hubby and I are starting a homestead farm and are looking at what cows to purchase....we're thinking mini sized is the best way to go....more expensive up front, but more cost effective in the long run.....?

My grandfather started raising miniature jerseys in the 1940's and they were always great milkers, great to handle, and consumed less than a standard size cow. They are quite expensive to start just make sure if you choose to purchase one you research the breeder. Many out there don't have good foundation stock and that is disappointing.

 

[kstaven]

Many that are being called mini jerseys are cross breeds and not heritage stock.

 

[chicnbuns]

Many that are being called mini jerseys are cross breeds and not heritage stock.

yes, One of the places I saw was Jerseys crossed with Dexters...maybe I just need to look for a runt! ;^)

 

[kstaven]

If you where on this side of the border I know of a place that has what one would call heritage blood lines.

 

[chicnbuns]

That would be a nightmare though, If I can't afford the prices here, I can imagine what it would cost to get them over the border! Nice thought though

If you where on this side of the border I know of a place that has what one would call heritage blood lines.

 

[MrsPratt]

Many that are being called mini jerseys are cross breeds and not heritage stock.

What exactly do you mean by heritage stock? Please elaborate

 

[MrsPratt]

Many that are being called mini jerseys are cross breeds and not heritage stock.

yes, One of the places I saw was Jerseys crossed with Dexters...maybe I just need to look for a runt! ;^)

Many do cross with Dexters and sell them as Jerseys

 

[kstaven]

Many that are being called mini jerseys are cross breeds and not heritage stock.

What exactly do you mean by heritage stock? Please elaborate

Jerseys where historically much smaller than the milk machines we enjoy today on our milking lines. There are still pockets of the non-upbred stock kicking around. They are the real heritage stock.