For the second part of the 'Dairy Calf to Beef’ series’ on the Beef Edge, Teagasc Beef Specialist, David Argue discusses what to be aware of when sourcing calves and the essential things to get right during the rearing process.
When sourcing dairy-beef calves this spring, David explains, the health of the calf, breed and genetic make-up are very important.
Avoid any signs of ill health, and minimise stress around purchase and transport. Good ventilation, bedding, and stocking density are important to reduce disease.
David says that a good milk replacer is essential an keeping a routine at feeding time is important.
Daily liveweight gain should ideally double from purchase at 3 weeks of age to 12 weeks of age, with calves gaining 0.8kg/head/day.
It is essential that the calf has a well-developed rumen and maximises early life performance to ensure good thrive going forward. David also highlights that developing a farm-specific health plan with a vet is key to ensure issues from previous years are resolved and overcome.
Listen in below:
For further details on the nutritional management of dairy beef calves, visit here.
Teagasc DairyBeef 500 Conference
The Teagasc DairyBeef 500 Conference 2026 will take place on Thursday, January 29th at 7pm at Ballykisteen Hotel, Limerick Junction, County Tipperary, E34 VK12.
For more information on the Teagasc DairyBeef 500 Conference, visit here.
Produced on behalf of Teagasc by LastCastMedia.com, more episodes are available on the Beef Edge Podcast show page.