By Sue Pollington
I have just been a Dexter owner for 3 and a half years now, but I have had to halter train 1 cow and 2 heifers. Luckily for me, I grew up with horses and it’s pretty similar although I think my Dexters have been far more willing and patient with training than horses.
I have also stanchion trained 3 cows. Beyond that I haven;t had to train much but I too have been trained. My Dexters have taught me they like affection and treats but mostly affection as they want pets whether I have treats or not. They have trained me that they would rather follow me than be driven from the back but will accept that too, but only if someone is leading as well. My Dexters like their routine and prefer if I’m on time but will forgive me after some complaint if I am late.
I have learned working with cows is a partnership. I may need to be firm but I shouldn’t be scary. Mostly as soon as the herd understands what I want they are pretty happy to give it. We all need to be respectful of each other and patient. A human will not win and may not even live in a cow fight so that must not happen.
On time my Dexter Milk Cow, Lacey, moved me to the wall of the barn. She was not happy with the stanchion training and wanted to let me know. She didn’t hurt me or smash me in anyway but I learned good lessons that way. If a cow loses patience, take a break and try again later. Lacey is now a pro in the stachion and we are both happy with that.
This is just my experience and what I wanted and needed to train in. My best advice is develop trust with you Dexters and work with them, not against them.
Sue Pollington
