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The Miniature Hereford Cows: Perfect Small-Scale Cattle for Your Farm.

History

The Miniature Hereford and full-sized Hereford both share the same body proportions. Miniature Hereford are just smaller in size. Female Miniature Herefords stand at most 45 inches at the hip, while males reach up to 48 inches.

The origins of the breed go back 280 years ago (In 1742) in Herefordshire, England. A man named Benjamin Tomkins founded the breed. He began selective breeding with the aim of efficient breed production. Later, his son continued his work and further refined the breed’s traits.

The breed was officially registered in 1846 in England.

In 1882, breeders Gudgell and Simpson imported a Miniature Hereford bull named Anxiety 4th, who became the predecessor of all-American Miniature Herefords. Later, in the 1900s, their bloodline went through many refinements.

In the 1930s, a recessive gene emerged among the breed, which was eventually removed. In 1969, amid a trend of fostering larger cattle, the Largent family launched a breeding program in the Davis Mountains of Texas to preserve the original Miniature Hereford breed.

Thanks to the multigenerational efforts, for them today we have gentle, small-sized, effective Miniature Hereford beef cattle.

Miniature Herefords at a glance

• Males can reach up to 48 inches in height, while females can reach up to 45 inches.
• The average weight of a Miniature Hereford is around 450kg (100lb).
• They are compact, small-sized beef cattle.
• Require less space, making them ideal for small farms.
• Consume less feed, have good feed conversion, and mature earlier than other ordinary breeds.
• Produce high-quality beef.
• Naturally docile and gentle, making them easy to handle.
• Great choice for beginners.
• Adaptable to various climates.
• Ideal for 4-H or FFA programs.

Miniature Hereford’s Characteristics

The Miniature Herefords possess the same body structure and temperament as their large counterpart. They are just smaller in size, which reflects their name. These cattle are very docile and gentle, making them easy to handle. Miniature Hereford consumes 30-40% less than standard Hereford. Males can reach up to 48 inches in height while females can reach up to 45 inches. They weigh on average about 450kg (1000lb).

Want to learn about charming Mini Highland? Click here.