I need help trying to figure out my Cow's Calf's behavior?

Question

So we have a half jersey half angus Cow, and she had a calf (not sure exactly what breed) anyways, she is about 9 months old now, and she has been acting a little strange. Whenever I need to do something in their pen, she'll always come over to me and start rubbing her head and neck on my leg, and start to get a little more rough the more she does it. She eventually will be almost hitting me with her head, she stuck her head in between my legs and lifted me off the ground a little bit. It makes me a little nervous as I am not sure if she is trying to play, or if she is trying to show her dominance, or if she wants to show affection. Anyways, does anybody know what this type of behavior is? Thanks.

Land-shark · Accepted Answer

Essentially that heifer is in the 'naughty teenager' phase where the circle of fear becomes much less important to them. It is bullying you effectively and you have to stop letting it do this as it probably regards you as one of its peer group.

Elaine M · Answer

It's affection, and possibly an itchy neck.  Try bushing her with a rough brush.

Sean K · Answer

To me it seems normal. Perhaps playing.

The trained cattle that I owned liked scratches in the hard to reach places like the back and behind the head.

Daisy · Answer

She's establishing herself as the boss in her group....which includes you. And at 9 months, she may be starting to cycle which can make them a little silly.

Clap, jump, make noise, scare her off. If that doesn't work, smack her on the jaw and yell. She will get bigger and stronger. You need to make her respect you now.

Don't scratch and pet her. She's not a dog.

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I need help trying to figure out my Cow's Calf's behavior?

4 Answers