At DHF, our livestock are at the heart of everything we do. From our pedigree dairy herd to our native beef breeds and rotationally grazed sheep, we prioritise animal welfare, environmental sustainability and exceptional produce.
Our herd of 220 pedigree Ayrshire cows, supported by 150+ followers, is the cornerstone of our dairy operation. Ayrshires are known for their adaptability, disease resistance, and exceptional milk -typically 96% fat-free with 3.3% protein – making it ideal for butter, cheese, and other dairy products.
We prioritise animal welfare year-round. In spring through autumn, our cows choose between grazing freely or relaxing in custom-built sheds. As winter sets in, they’re kept indoors to protect them from harsh weather and fed homegrown forage harvested in summer. We work closely with a dietitian to ensure their nutrition is balanced and optimised.
On our farm, all dairy beef calves are raised for a minimum of two years before being sold for beef. We choose two native sires, Aberdeen Angus and Hereford, as these breeds are particularly well-suited to our climate.
Aberdeen Angus beef is renowned for its tenderness, marbling, and rich flavor. The high levels of intramuscular fat (marbling) in the meat ensure it stays juicy and full of flavor, making it perfect for steaks and other cuts. Similarly, Hereford beef offers the same tenderness and marbling but tends to be leaner, yet still retains enough intramuscular fat to deliver a satisfying eating experience. The marbling in both breeds ensures the beef remains juicy when cooked.
We also have a small herd of Pedigree Gloucester cows which we use for beef. They are dual purpose breed which is slower growing than your typical beef breed, yet, we believe this makes the meat more flavoursome.
We have a flock of Shropshire sheep, which we use to graze grass in the summer as well as winter and cover crops. Grazing sheep on winter crops helps control weeds and unwanted grasses, reducing the need for herbicides or excessive manual labour.
By grazing on winter crops, sheep contribute to rotational grazing practices. This allows the land to rest and regenerate while providing the sheep with high-quality forage. This practice helps us maintain soil health, reduce pest pressures, and improves the long-term sustainability of the farm’s crop rotation system. Compared to larger livestock, sheep have the added benefit of lighter hooves, which means they are less likely to cause soil compaction. This makes them ideal for grazing winter crops, as they can graze efficiently without damaging the soil structure.
We lamb our sheep in early spring so they are able to make the most of the lush spring and summer grass. Almost all of our females are kept for replacements and the boys are sold to a farm shop for meat.
