Anyone who works with cattle knows the value of a calm herd. Stressful cattle handling isn’t just unpleasant, it can lead to lower productivity, safety risks, and even health issues in your animals. Fortunately, producers have the power to create calmer herds through mindful and deliberate breeding decisions.
Genetics plays a huge role in shaping cattle temperament. While environment and handling certainly impact behavior, the genetic foundation you lay down through your breeding choices sets the stage for how easily your herd can be managed. At Deluisio Angus, we’ve experienced this directly. Selecting bulls based on temperament alongside performance data has profoundly impacted the behavior and manageability of our herd.
One standout example in our breeding program has been Connealy Total Package. Initially, he wasn’t in my lineup for the upcoming breeding season. However, when I met him at a local breeder’s farm, his demeanor immediately stood out. This bull calmly walked up and gently interacted with me, showing a temperament that far exceeded expectations. Beyond his strong genetic data, it was this calm and approachable behavior that convinced me he was an ideal choice for improving our herd’s temperament.
While performance metrics and data from organizations like the American Angus Association are essential tools, personal observation adds invaluable depth to breeding decisions. Observing a bull in person can reveal aspects of temperament and behavior that numbers alone cannot fully capture.
Ultimately, building a calmer herd requires intentionality from producers. Genetics are readily available that favor docility, but it’s our responsibility to actively seek and integrate them into our breeding programs. Choosing bulls known for calmness and combining that choice with thoughtful handling practices will help ensure your herd is productive, manageable, and safe.
At Deluisio Angus, we remain committed to mindful breeding decisions, knowing that genetics and attentive management are key ingredients in fostering a calm, successful herd environment.
Cody Deluisio, Deluisio Angus, Avonmore, Pennsylvania
