For cattle operations of any size, a bull purchase represents one of the most significant investments producers make. The genetics, disposition and overall health of a herd sire will have far-reaching impacts on productivity, profitability and long-term improvement. While these factors are crucial for all, some distinctive considerations stand out for smaller operations. With fewer animals and limited resources, every decision carries more weight, making it essential to approach selection with a strategic mindset and a keen eye for traits that align with a smaller farm’s unique goals and challenges.
“Smaller farms and ranches must use strategies that the larger producer may not be as aggressive on,” says Shawn Wilson, chair of the Canadian Beef Breeds Council. “They might push a little more on growth and weaning weight, as they need to make the most of their numbers. They might consider some buying differences, as it’s likely they’re more hands-on, whereas in the larger operations, cattle are often asked to be more self-sufficient.”
Loyalty to specific seedstock providers may not be as strong for those requiring only one or two bulls. Often, these producers emphasize price, fluctuating their buying tendencies as they try to get ahead. They might even keep beef females as more of a pastime, part-time gig or hobby.
Wilson says as a rule, those selling 50 or fewer calves each year will probably source their replacements, so the maternal traits of their potential herd sire may not be as critical to their success as the large operator who retains breeding heifers. He recommends targeting more terminal bulls, especially when looking to capitalize on growth and weaning weight values.
Non-negotiables
For both small and large cow-calf outfits, Wilson outlines some non-negotiables.
“Don’t buy unless the targeted animal has been tested to be a breeder, especially when they’re young,” Wilson says. “Try to buy virgins with a good health program. They should be BVD-free, as they can be shedders and spread the disease. Pay attention to the little things. Open cows or a BVD-infected calf crop would be disastrous in today’s markets.”
He notes temperament is still crucial, as first-calf heifers often need assistance, plus animals are routinely gathered and worked through corrals and chutes.
“Everyone’s health is more at risk when cattle are flighty and heady,” Wilson says. “Research also proves those with calmer temperaments perform better and are healthier in a feedlot setting. They manage stress and new environments more easily and have less sickness and mortality. They even grade better with fewer dark cutters. Plus, we’re not as worried about getting hurt when we work them.”
Make selections work on paper and in the real world
To hit the target when expanding or choosing a breed, Emma Briggs, assistant professor and beef systems extension specialist at Kansas State University, suggests there is nothing wrong with following the North American majority by establishing a black-hided herd, but stresses a higher importance of picking a breed and bull that helps capitalize on calf sales.
“Have an operational goal to hit the desired target,” Briggs stresses. “From this goal, trying to achieve the calf crop to fit the target’s description is critical. If it’s to fix structural issues, or fertility, or other lowly heritable traits, ensure the strategies fall within those boundaries.”
Define acceptable ROIs using numbers and goals
Briggs outlines the importance of understanding the total number of sires required and the cows-per-bull ratio, as every heat cycle gained or lost amounts to approximately 40 pounds of weaned calf.
She is split on selecting for numbers or picking for goals, believing each plays a vital role in profitability.
“It can be difficult to hit the optimal bull for small producers,” she admits. “I like to make a list of traits and EPDs I won’t settle on. I might need to fix udder structures or make feet and leg corrections. There might be aspects I could stretch on – for example, maybe his growth isn’t as high as I’d like, but he displays strong calving ease, and solid feet and legs. He could do well for me.”
From there, Briggs advises expanding the list into performance and potential improvements. Identify how the herd should look in five or 10 years. Limit dramatic changes but make small advances toward desired traits and results.
“For small producers, often focusing on maternal traits and longevity tops the list,” she says. “If keeping a few replacements, concentrating on calving ease, milking numbers and stayability are key. How likely is it that a cow will stay productive until at least age 6? Achieving the right answer is crucial.”
Smaller operations selling their calf crops at weaning or after a short backgrounding period might focus their buying criteria on weaning and yearling weights. Terminal indexes provide details for carcass and marbling traits. Additionally, if available, feed efficiency numbers offer a glimpse of how calves might perform in the feedlot.
“Don’t forget or ignore the importance of docility and temperament,” Briggs stresses. “No matter the farm size, it can sway the entire picture from positive to negative. I have confidence in my capabilities in a rowdy set of bulls, but do I really need to deal with it? What if my nieces or nephews are helping? Keep things calmer by zeroing in on more docility.”
To create smaller-scale success and consistent profitability, she advocates for a steady hand to steer the decisions and management strategies, including bull selections.
“Try to remain versatile and avoid the extraneous,” Briggs stresses. “Don’t get lured in by the super high milker or larger frames, as these traits might look nice in the show ring. but they’ll increase inputs, which might not be as readily available for smaller operations. Talk to the extension services office and do some research. When it comes time to buy, I recommend a red and a black pen to circle what I like and what I don’t like. That way, I can quickly decide between a yes or a no when the auctioneer looks my way.”
