A Practical Guide to Keeping and Feeding Bulls
Raising bulls isn’t quite the same as raising steers or heifers. Bulls are powerful animals with strong instincts and specific needs. If you’re thinking about keeping one (or already do), here’s a guide to help you manage them properly — from shelter and space to feeding and behavior tips.
- Understanding Bull Behavior First
Before we even get to feeding or housing, it’s important to understand bulls. They’re not just big cows with horns — they can be territorial, aggressive, and unpredictable, especially during breeding season. That doesn’t mean they’re monsters — but you need to respect their strength and instincts.
Tips:
Never turn your back on a bull, even one that seems calm.
Get to know your bull early on. Bulls raised around people tend to be calmer — but that’s not a guarantee.
Use solid fencing, not just wire — and check it often.
- Shelter & Space
Housing
Bulls need shelter just like any other livestock, especially in extreme weather. A three-sided shed can work fine in most climates, as long as it blocks wind, rain, and snow.
Fencing
Forget flimsy — think strong and secure:
Use heavy-duty steel gates and solid posts.
High-tensile electric fencing (4-5 strands) can work well, but you’ll want a good charger.
Keep visual barriers between bulls and cows unless you’re breeding — otherwise, they’ll try to break through.
Space
Bulls don’t like to feel boxed in:
Ideally, they should have at least half an acre per animal if they’re not in with a herd.
Keep exercise space available — bulls kept in tight pens tend to get bored and aggressive.
- Feeding Bulls Properly
Feeding bulls isn’t rocket science, but it does require planning. What you feed depends on the bull’s age, breed, purpose (breeding, show, meat), and activity level.
Basic Nutritional Needs
Here’s a breakdown:
Forage: The base of a bull’s diet. Good-quality hay or pasture is essential.
Grain/Concentrates: Used for weight gain or growing young bulls. Be careful — too much grain can cause acidosis.
Minerals: Always provide a salt block or loose mineral supplement made specifically for cattle.
Water: Clean, fresh water 24/7. Bulls drink a lot — up to 30+ gallons a day in hot weather.
Feeding by Age
Young Bulls (6–18 months): They’re still growing, so high-protein feed may be needed. Keep a balance — don’t overfeed or they’ll get joint issues.
Mature Bulls: Maintenance is the key. Good hay or pasture, some grain if needed, and proper minerals.
Breeding Season: Increase energy intake a bit — they’ll burn calories chasing cows.
Watch Their Condition
You want bulls to be fit, not fat. Overweight bulls tend to be lazy breeders and can have hoof or fertility issues. Underweight bulls may lack stamina.
Use a body condition score system (1–9 scale) and aim for around 6 before breeding season.
- Health and Safety
Routine Care
Vaccinations: Work with a vet to stay up-to-date on what’s needed in your area.
Parasite Control: Deworm at least twice a year.
Hoof Care: If your bull isn’t on rocky or varied terrain, you may need to trim hooves.
Breeding Soundness Exams: Annually before breeding season.
Safety for You and Others
Always have an escape route when working around bulls.
Use a sorting alley or chute for close contact tasks (vaccinating, trimming).
Never trust a bull, no matter how calm he seems — especially if he’s with females.
- Breeding Considerations
If you’re using your bull for breeding:
Limit to around 20–30 cows for a young bull; 40+ for a mature one.
Give him rest between groups or cycles if you’re rotating herds.
Observe: Some bulls are lazy or overly aggressive. Cull accordingly.
- Handling and Training
Training a bull doesn’t mean you’ll teach him tricks, but basic halter training (especially for young bulls) helps. Use calm, consistent handling. Avoid hitting or yelling — bulls respond better to steady, confident direction.
- Seasonal Needs
Winter: Extra hay, wind protection, and check water often (ice blocks access).
Summer: Shade is crucial, along with fly control and constant clean water.
- Equipment You’ll Need
Strong gates and fences
Cattle chute or head gate
Mineral feeder
Large water trough
Fly control (sprays, rubs, ear tags)
Feed bins or hay feeders
Weatherproof shelter
Final Thoughts
Keeping a bull isn’t for everyone — they’re not pets, and they demand attention and respect. But if you manage them right, they can be a valuable part of your herd and breeding program. Just remember: safety first, feed smart, and don’t underestimate the importance of good fencing.
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