There will be a point that the dam will produce very little milk, and the calf will eventually be weaned. The lactational curve for most beef cows is about 25 weeks, and at that time most breeds will be producing 5 pounds of milk or less daily. Peak milk production occurs at about 60 to 80 days post-calving. If the cow is going to produce another calf, the mammary system needs to have at least a 60-day dry period for it to re-condition itself before she starts another lactation.

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