Simmental Cattle: Breed Profile
A red-and-white Swiss breed used for beef and milk worldwide.
Simmental cattle come from the Simme valley in Switzerland and are one of the oldest and most widespread breeds in the world. They are usually red or gold with a white face and white markings. They arrived in North America in the 1960s and became a major beef breed.
Purpose
The breed was developed as dual-purpose, and in North America it is mostly used for beef, with an emphasis on growth, milk and muscling. Simmental bulls are popular in crossbreeding.
Where the breed stands today
The breed is common, with a large association and a junior program, and many shows have Simmental classes.
What to look for in a Simmental project animal
Look for a large, balanced frame, a uniform red or black coat with a white face, strong legs and a calm temperament. Black animals, often called Simmental crosses, may be registered under different rules. Have a knowledgeable adult, a breeder or your veterinarian look the animal over before you buy, and compare more than one seller.
Showing Simmental at 4-H and FFA
Cattle are judged as breeding animals, as market animals and in showmanship. Rules differ by fair, so read your show book before you commit.
Pros
- Active junior association with contests and shows
- Good growth and mothering traits
- Many breeders and class options
- Beef cattle shows usually offer breed classes, showmanship and market classes, so there are several ways to compete.
- Cattle teach feeding, grooming, handling and record keeping, which carry over to every other project.
Cons
- Competition can be stiff
- Large size means more feed and handling space
- Registry rules for percentage animals can be complex
- Cattle projects are expensive once feed, vet care, entry fees and travel are added up.
- A steer or heifer needs a sturdy pen, a wash rack, a trailer and a place to work every day.
Caring for your project
Plan on daily feeding, brushing and halter work for months before the show. Keep a record book from the first day, and write down feed, health care and costs, because judges and buyers both ask about them.
Getting started
A good first step is to visit a show in your area and watch the classes for your species. Talk with exhibitors, the superintendent and your club advisor about what they look for, and ask whether the show has a class for Simmental. Many students find a mentor this way, and a mentor can save you from the most expensive beginner mistakes.
Planning your budget
Add up the purchase price, feed, bedding, veterinary care, entry fees, travel and equipment before you commit. Ask your advisor what a typical project costs in your county, and plan for the chance that the animal will not qualify for the sale. A realistic budget keeps the project fun for the student and fair to the family.
Show-day tips
Arrive early so the animal and the exhibitor can settle before the class. Check the show book for the class name, age limits and check-in time, and bring your paperwork, feed, water and cleaning supplies. Judges notice calm, well-prepared exhibitors, so keep the animal clean, stay quiet in the ring and answer questions honestly. Afterward, ask the judge for feedback, because a few minutes of advice can shape next year's project.
Learning from the ring
Win or lose, every class teaches something. Write down what the judge said, compare notes with other exhibitors and talk with your advisor about one thing to improve before the next show. Students who treat each show as practice usually improve fastest, and they tend to enjoy the project more.
Questions to ask a breeder
- Are the animal and her parents registered, and can I see the papers?
- How old is she, and what has she been fed?
- How has she been handled, and what is her temperament?
- What vaccinations, health care and treatments has she had?
- Will she be eligible for the classes and sale at my show?
Bottom line
Simmentals are a versatile, well-supported breed for market and breeding projects.
To see how the contests work, read How Breeding Classes and Market Classes Work. Suppliers, vets and feed stores near you are listed at agriculture.directory. For a lighter look at fair life, farm.fm has What It Means to Be a Cowboy, and the Livestock Conservancy tracks the status of rare breeds.