LUBBOCK, TEXAS (RFD NEWS) — Beef x dairy feeder cattle have become a mainstream source of inventory for feedyards as feeder prices remain historically strong and traditional cattle supplies stay tight. New marketing data show buyers increasingly value genetics, dam type, and management details when bidding on dairy-cross cattle.
An analysis of 2025 sales by Cattle Marketing Services, Inc. covered nearly 95,000 head across 469 groups, with average weights near 525 pounds. From January 2025 to January 2026, beef x dairy prices rose about $176 per hundredweight, translating to more than $1,000 per head on a 600-pound feeder. Pricing also showed the steepest weight slide on record, with values falling roughly $60 per hundredweight for each additional 100 pounds.
Genetics and dam type were major price drivers. Holstein-dam cattle brought nearly $27 per hundredweight more than non-Holstein crosses, while Angus-sired calves commanded premiums exceeding $15 per hundredweight. Verified programs and non-hormone-treated cattle added further value.
Group size had a limited influence on price, reinforcing that buyers prioritize cattle quality over load size. Average prices for 500-pound beef x dairy steers closely matched native steer values, underscoring broad market acceptance.
Looking ahead, the data suggest beef x dairy cattle will remain a critical supply source as feedyards manage tighter inventories and rising capital requirements.
Farm-Level Takeaway: Beef x Dairy cattle with strong genetics and documentation are earning prices comparable to native feeders.
Tony St. James, RFD NEWS Markets Specialist
Supplemental Disaster Relief Program Stage Two will disburse around $16 billion, approved by Congress last year. Sign-ups begin Monday, and producers have until April to return applications.
November 21, 2025 11:48 AM
·
An outbreak of Equine Herpesvirus Type 1 (EHV-1) first appeared after livestock events in Texas and Arizona, and some horses have already died.
November 21, 2025 10:47 AM
·
Early Cattle-on-Feed estimates point to slightly tighter cattle supplies, reinforcing the need to monitor prices and timing for winter marketing.
November 21, 2025 10:45 AM
·
Removing the 40% duty sharply lowers U.S. beef import costs on beef, coffee, fertilizer and fruit, and restores Brazil’s competitiveness during a period of tight domestic supply.
November 21, 2025 10:30 AM
·
Row crop losses in 2025 are outpacing last year. With no disaster aid yet approved, many operations face a tough financial bridge to 2026 even as Farm Bill improvements remain a year away.
November 20, 2025 05:00 PM
·
Farm CPA Paul Neiffer explains the USDA’s Stage Two Supplemental Disaster Relief Program, including application details, deadlines, and guidance for rural producers.
November 20, 2025 03:34 PM
·
November 20, 2025 02:04 PM
CattleCon 2026 kicks off February 3 in Nashville. Kristin Torres with the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association joined RFD-TV to share more about what’s ahead at this year’s event.
November 20, 2025 01:32 PM
·
Jerry Cosgrove with American Farmland Trust explains why farmers and ranchers should start their estate planning now.
November 19, 2025 04:44 PM
·
