Should You Get a Purebred Cow or a Cross?

There are some people who would not even consider buying a cow that is not "papered," i.e. purebred complete with registration papers. Others think papers are a waste of time and you should just buy a cross-bred family milk cow. What then should you, a novice cow owner, do?  Spend the big bucks for a registered bovine or not?

First, if you are one who prefers to buy a registered heifer or cow, do not let anyone make you feel guilty. There are those who will tell you you are crazy, wasting your money, just buying a "piece of paper," etc. Pay no attention. You should do what you think is right for your situation. There are pros and cons.

Buying a purebred animal with a history is just that - allowing you to see the cow's history and parentage. Knowing the cow's lines, you can then selectively and thoughtfully breed your cow later.

A registered cow also allows you to command a higher price if you choose to sell either the cow or her offspring. But let's think about that for a second. Are you actually going to get a "higher" price or would you be getting a lower, reduced price, for an unregistered animal? Some say one thing, some the other, but the end result is the same - you'll almost always pay less or get less money for an unregistered cow.

Now, does the milk taste any different if your cow is cross-bred or not papered? Is the cow's personality going to be any better or worse? Will she be a nicer or less nice pet? Will she produce more or less? Probably not, and some find the savings worthwhile.

The point is, if you have a happy healthy cow and you are satisfied with her and her production, that is the most important thing.