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
USMEF CEO Dan Halstrom joined us on Monday’s Market Day Report for his analysis on the U.S.-Taiwan trade agreement, which includes big bucks for U.S. Beef.
September 22, 2025 12:30 PM
·
Record U.S. sorghum crop faces weak demand as China slashes imports, while corn farmers warn of rising costs, shrinking margins, and global market pressures.
September 22, 2025 11:46 AM
·
Fewer cattle on feed suggest smaller slaughter numbers this winter, which could support strong prices if beef demand holds firm.
September 22, 2025 11:10 AM
·
Dairy farmers are expected to face strong output and export gains, but lower prices and tighter margins will persist into next year.
September 22, 2025 10:52 AM
·
With the latest detection just across the border, animal health officials on both sides are intensifying efforts to contain the outbreak before it spreads further north.
September 22, 2025 09:51 AM
·
The USDA NASS report also confirms lower August placements.
September 19, 2025 03:36 PM
·
Producers and processors should watch trade policy closely as tariff impacts ripple through seafood markets.
September 19, 2025 03:15 PM
·
While symbolic, the WTO’s youth hackathon reflects growing calls for creative approaches to food trade and security, with potential implications for reducing losses, expanding biofuel markets, and stabilizing grain flows.
September 19, 2025 03:08 PM
·
Chad Collin, founder of The Quack Pack USA, joined us on Friday’s Market Day Report to share his expertise in training Border Collies to serve as indispensable farm and ranch dogs.
September 19, 2025 02:56 PM
·
