- Buying the Wrong Stock to start
This is a frequent mistake, particularly for first-time dairy farmers. Starting off on the wrong foot by purchasing livestock that doesn’t align with your farming objectives can be costly. Many new farmers rush into dairy farming without proper research or planning.
To avoid this, ensure you choose a breed suited to your local climate, capable of producing well with available feed, and resistant to prevalent diseases. Proper planning and consultation with agricultural extension officers, veterinarians, or livestock production specialists are key. These professionals can help you assess an animal’s records and predict its future productivity.
- Poor Animal Husbandry
Even the best dairy breeds won’t perform optimally without proper care. Good animal husbandry is essential for achieving high milk yields. Neglecting this critical aspect of farming can lead to poor performance despite investing in high-quality livestock.
For instance, if you invest in a pedigree breed like Holstein, you must ensure the animal receives sufficient high-quality feed, is protected from ticks, and is safeguarded against common diseases such as mastitis.