Q&A: At what age is it safe to breed a heifer?
Dr. Rick Rasby, Professor of Animal Science, Animal Science, University of Nebraska
A: Breeding should occur when the heifer reaches puberty. Puberty is a function of breed, age, and weight. Most heifers will reach puberty and be bred by 12 to 14 months of age and will be between 55% and 65% of their mature weight when they first begin to exhibit estrous cycles.