The purebred cattle market often provides a higher return per cow unit, but at the expense of higher maintenance costs, higher breeding costs, more management inputs and greater risks. The one unique aspect of the purebred industry is the high-profile advertising and educational programs, such as field days. Traits used in the final selection process should not be affected by the type of operation (commercial or purebred). If your breed selection is more dependent on production and return on investment, make coat selection low on the list of criteria.

Productivity will suffer, however, if coat color is a primary selection trait. As a producer, you must be satisfied with the color and its uniformity or lack of uniformity. There are breeds that will produce all of the colors mentioned above and more. A herd of purebred cattle will generally be more uniform in coat color than a herd of crossbred cows. How many times have you heard someone say, 'I like 'em because they're black'? Coat color, whether it is red, black, white, yellow, gray or mixed, has little to do with performance, but it does affect how people perceive cattle. Unfortunately, one of the more influential factors on breed selection is coat color. Table 1 illustrates that while production can be increased by selection for growth, the increased production from crossbreeding is more rapid and cost-effective. When choosing a breed for either a commercial or purebred operation, base your decision on profitability. The commercial operation is generally a lower-input, lower-risk type of venture. The purebred operation requires more time, record keeping and initial input. The two fundamental categories of beef cattle operations are purebred and commercial. After reading this publication, you should understand why the only correct answer is, 'It depends!' This publication provides accurate, unbiased information to guide the decision-making process. The diversity of resources and management capabilities of any operation makes this question difficult to answer. New cattle producers frequently ask, 'Which breed should I choose?' This question brings cold chills to many knowledgeable cattle producers and excitement to just as many enthusiastic breeders. Dyer, Former Extension Animal Scientist – Beef Cattle Knight, County Extension ANR Agent – Madison CountyĪnd Ted G.

Raising holstein bull calves for beef