An insider’s guide to buying bulls: What you need to know and ask

Investing in a quality bull or team of bulls can make or break the future of your cattle herd.

A bull contributes half the genetics to your calf crop, so selecting the right one is critical to improving your herd’s productivity, profitability and long-term success.

Whether you’re purchasing a bull for growth, carcase quality, fertility or a balance of all three, there are some key factors to consider.

In this insider’s guide, we’ll walk you through what to look for when buying a bull and the essential questions to ask sellers before making this important investment.

Key factors to consider when buying a bull

1. Breeding objectives: Know your goals

Before stepping into any sale or auction, be crystal clear about your breeding goals.

Are you looking to improve weaning weights, carcase quality, fertility or calving ease?

Bulls can have a wide range of traits, and it’s essential to match the bull’s genetic strengths to your herd’s specific needs.

A high-growth bull may not always suit a herd that needs better fertility or maternal traits.

2. EBV or GBV

Estimated breeding values (EBVs) and genomic breeding values (GBVs) are one of the most valuable tools available when selecting bulls.

They predict the genetic potential of a bull’s offspring for traits like growth rate, milk production, carcase quality and fertility. Key traits to focus on include:

·       Birth weight (BW): Indicates how likely a bull’s offspring will be easy to calve.

·       Weaning weight (WW): Predicts the calf’s growth potential up to weaning.

·       Yearling weight (YW): Forecasts growth potential from weaning to yearling.

·       Puberty (Pub): Indicates the age of puberty for females.

·       Wet rebreed (P4M): Indicates how likely the bull’s female offspring will have a calf a year.

·       Carcase traits: Includes marbling and ribeye area (REA), which are crucial for beef production.

3. Structural soundness

A bull’s physical structure is critical for longevity and reproductive success.

When inspecting a bull, pay close attention to:

·       Feet and legs: Ensure he has sound hooves and legs, as lameness can reduce a bull’s ability to breed and affect overall longevity.

·       Shoulders and back: Look for a smooth shoulder structure to ensure ease of movement and reduce the risk of injury during mating.

·       Muscle development: Check the bull’s muscular build, as it affects both his reproductive capacity and the growth potential of his offspring.

4.Fertility

A bull’s fertility is non-negotiable, as even the best genetics won’t matter if he can’t reproduce effectively.

Always ask for a breeding soundness evaluation (BSE) report.

The BSE includes an assessment of scrotal circumference (bigger scrotums correlate with earlier-maturing daughters) and semen quality, and can test for venereal disease.

5. Temperament

A bull’s temperament directly impacts both handling ease and safety.

Bulls with aggressive or excitable temperaments can be dangerous and hard to manage, leading to accidents in the paddock or the yards.

Select for docility, especially if your operation involves frequent handling or interaction with the animals.

6. Age and maturity

Younger bulls (12 to 24 months) tend to be less expensive but might not be ready to cover as many cows as a more mature bull.

Older bulls (24+ months) typically have proven breeding histories and are more physically mature, but they may have a shorter breeding lifespan.

Match the bull’s age with the size of your operation and the number of cows he’ll be expected to cover.

7. Genetic defects

Some bulls may carry recessive genes for undesirable traits, such as Pompe’s or double muscling.

Check for any known genetic defects in the bull or his bloodline, and inquire about genetic testing to rule out any issues that could compromise the long-term health of your herd.

Essential questions to ask when buying a bull

1. What is the bull’s pedigree and genetic background?

Understanding the bull’s pedigree helps ensure he carries desirable traits from both sides of his family.

Ask the seller to provide a detailed pedigree report so you can see the bull’s genetic potential for traits like fertility, calving ease and carcase quality.

2. Can I see the bull’s EBVs/GBVs and performance data?

Performance data is critical for selecting a bull that aligns with your specific goals.

Reviewing his EBVs/GBVs allows you to make informed decisions about growth, carcase quality and reproductive traits.

Don’t just rely on appearance – genetic data provides far more insight into how his offspring are likely to perform.

3. Has the bull passed a recent BSE?

A BSE ensures the bull is fertile and capable of breeding.

Ask for documentation of the most recent exam, which should include semen analysis and scrotal measurements.

It’s also a good idea to inquire about the bull’s breeding history, if he’s already been used in previous breeding seasons.

4. What is the bull’s vaccination and health history?

Disease prevention is key to a successful breeding program.

Ask the seller for a complete vaccination and health record.

Ensure the bull has been tested for common diseases, such as bovine viral diarrhea (BVD) and vibriosis.

You should also inquire about any recent illness or injury that could affect his performance.

5. How has the bull been managed and fed?

Bulls raised in different environments can behave differently when integrated into your herd.

Ask how the bull has been managed, whether he’s been on pasture or fed a high-concentrate diet.

Bulls fed heavily on grain may look impressive, but they might take time to adjust to a forage-based diet in your operation.

6. What is the bull’s temperament?

Confirm the bull has a calm, manageable disposition.

Ask the seller for specific examples of how the bull behaves during handling, vaccination and transportation.

A bull that’s aggressive or hard to manage could pose a safety risk to you and your team.

7. Are there guarantees or warranties on the bull’s fertility and performance?

Some breeders offer fertility guarantees or warranties that the bull will perform as expected.

Be clear on what the seller’s policy is if the bull fails to impregnate cows or doesn’t meet expectations in the first breeding season. 

8. What do the bull’s daughters typically look like?

If the bull has already sired offspring, ask about their performance, especially in terms of maternal traits like milk production, calving ease and fertility.

A bull’s daughters can offer significant insight into what to expect from future generations.

Conclusion: Make the right bull investment

Buying a bull is one of the most impactful decisions you’ll make for your herd.

By considering the key factors – such as breeding objectives, expected progeny differences (EPDs), structural soundness, fertility and temperament – you can make a well-informed choice.

Don’t be afraid to ask questions to ensure you’re selecting a bull that aligns with your breeding program’s goals.

Remember, a good bull is more than just muscle and stature.

He’s the foundation of your herd’s future productivity, profitability and genetic progress.

Take the time to evaluate your options, ask the right questions and choose a bull that will lead your operation toward long-term success.