Buying a Bull: What Really Matters

A practical checklist for confident, long-term breeding decisions 

A quality bull influences profitability, fertility and genetics for years — not just one calf crop. Buying a bull is one of the most important investments you’ll make in your herd.

To help you buy with confidence, here are the key areas that matter when selecting your next bull. 

Limitless Chunk - SimAngus

Bull Buying Quick Checklist 

• Registered with breed society 

• Genomically tested 

• DNA sire verified 

• Physically sound with attractive phenotype 

• Docile temperament (quiet to handle) 

• Fertility tested (semen & reproductive soundness) 

• Paddock raised & fed for longevity 

• Bred by a reputable breeder 

PERFORMANCE & GENETICS 

1. EBVs, Genomics & Data Accuracy 

Ensure the bull is registered with his respective breed society, as this underpins the integrity of all recorded data. 

Estimated Breeding Values & Expected Progeny difference  (EBVs or EDPs) are useful predictors of genetic potential, particularly when supported by genomic testing, which improves accuracy. Key traits to assess include: 

• Calving Ease 

• Growth Traits 

• Carcase Traits 

• Genomic testing reduces risk by increasing confidence in EBVs/EPDs before large numbers of progeny are on the ground. 

Additional testing 

We use Neogen Igenity Beef profiling to complement Breedplan and provide an additional layer of confidence for our buyers. 

Key reasons: 

• Measures 17 economically important traits using genomic DNA 

• Validated through the IGS database (26+ million records) 

• Provides insight into traits not prioritised in Angus Breedplan, including: 

• Stayability — daughters that remain productive in the herd for longer 

• Feed efficiency (RFI) — increasingly important as feed costs rise 

• Offers direct genomic selection for true carcase marbling and tenderness 

• Feedlot and carcase traits show 90%+ correlation when followed through to the rail 

In short: Igenity helps us breed cattle that last longer, eat more efficiently, and deliver better eating quality — protecting profitability in real-world conditions. 

2. The Power of the Mumma Cow 

Bulls bred from strong, proven maternal lines are more likely to sire: 

• Fertile daughters 

• Long-lasting cows 

• Consistent, functional progeny 

Great bulls are built on great cows. 

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3. DNA Sire Verification — Know What You’re Buying 

DNA sire verification confirms that a bull’s recorded pedigree is genetically correct. This ensures: 

• EBVs/EPDs are calculated from the correct parents 

• Genetic predictions are reliable 

• What you purchase is exactly what is advertised 

Sire verification and genomics remove guesswork and protect your investment. 

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 STRUCTURE, TEMPERAMENT & FUNCTION

4. Physical Soundness 

Strong genetics mean little if a bull can’t physically perform. For added peace of mind, look for bulls that have been independently assessed by an industry expert. 

You should also assess for yourself: 

• Feet and leg structure 

• Movement and mobility 

• Body capacity and muscling 

• Body condition (avoid over-fat or underdone bulls) 

Structural soundness directly affects serving ability, injury risk and working life. 

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5. Temperament Matters 

Docility impacts safety, management and performance. Poor temperament increases handling risk and herd stress, which can negatively affect and in some cases compromise growth and carcase outcomes (like dark cutters). 

Calm, quiet bulls are easier to manage and more likely to pass desirable temperament traits to their progeny. 

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 HEALTH, FERTILITY & MANAGEMENT 

6. Fertility Testing & Health Programs 

Always confirm the bull has: 

• Passed a fertility test, including semen evaluation by a qualified technician 

• Been managed under a sound vaccination and herd health program 

Fertility is non-negotiable — without it, everything else is irrelevant. 

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7. Paddock Raised & Fed for Longevity 

Bulls raised in commercial paddock conditions and fed for longevity — rather than being pushed or over-conditioned — are more likely to: 

1. Transition smoothly after purchase 

2. Remain structurally sound 

3. Work effectively across multiple joinings 

Longevity-focused nutrition supports durability, not just sale-day appearance. 

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ASSURANCE & VALUE 

8. Reputable Breeders & Transparency 

Choose breeders who offer: 

• Transparent health and fertility records 

• Proven, purposeful breeding programs 

• A genuine commitment to improving the breed and industry Great breeders do more than sell bulls — they stand behind them. 

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9. True Cost & Long-Term Value 

If superior genetics add $100 per calf through improved growth or carcase quality, a bull siring 100 calves delivers $10,000 in additional value over a cheaper, inferior alternative. 

Saving $1,000 upfront can cost far more through lost genetic progress, reduced longevity, or increased replacement rates. A higher-priced bull that lasts longer and sires more calves often costs less per calf over his lifetime. 

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10. Buy With Purpose 

Bull buying isn’t a short-term decision — it’s a strategic investment in your herd’s future. Focusing on genetics, structure, fertility, health and longevity delivers compounding returns over time.