Dexter Breed Standard

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Attributes

Colour should be wholly black, wholly red or wholly dun. A little white will not disqualify but must be limited to in bulls, a small amount on the organs of generation and in the tassel of the tail. In cows a small amount on the udder and underline, in the tassel of the tail and on the vulva is acceptable. In either sex, there must be no white forward of the navel or on any other part of the body.

Horns should be moderately thick, with an inward, upward curve. Removal of horns will not be penalised in the show ring. Polled animals are acceptable, but must be notified in writing.

The head should be short and broad, tapering gracefully towards a broad muzzle. Jaws wide enough to accommodate well-placed teeth with an even bite. Eyes bright and prominent, with a kind and placid expression. The neck should be deep and thick, but not too short or too long, blending well into the shoulder. The head should be carried above the spine.

Ample brisket giving plenty of room for the heart and lungs: well sprung ribs: wide across the loin. Quarters thick and deep, broad and full hips, well-rounded rump. Straight top line with tail set level with spine. Good width between both front and back legs. Legs should be of moderate length in proportion to body size, squarely placed under the body and perpendicular when viewed from the rear. Feet should be short toed, deep heeled and level soled. They should not turn inwards or outwards. Skin should be loose and pliable. Hair short and sleek in summer, longer and thicker in winter. Both types of Dexter, i.e. short legged and non-short legged, are of equal merit. However, extremes of either type are discouraged.

Bulls Well hung testicles of even size. Four well defined teats, well placed and evenly spaced. Height between 42 and 48 inches (106 and 121 cm) at the rump.

Cows Udder should be well attached with high and wide rear attachment and a strong median suspensory ligament. The four teats should be of medium size, well placed on the udder, hanging plumb and of equal length. All four quarters should be of equal size. Height between 38 and 44 inches (96 and 111 cm) at the rump.

Registration

A green card is issued by the breed society when a Dexter is registered to indicate proof of pedigree. However, this registration certificate does not offer any guarantee that the animal meets the breed standard above or that it is suitable to breed from.

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