Building a milking cow stanchion can seem straightforward until you encounter the nuances that make or break its functionality and safety. Through our own trials and errors, we've identified five critical mistakes to steer clear of.

Making It Too Wide

Starting with a width of 4 feet seemed reasonable to us, but we quickly realized the drawback. This width made it difficult to safely reach the cow, especially for children, turning the stanchion into a cumbersome and potentially unsafe space. The ample room allowed cows to move too freely, even attempting to turn around. Solution- Opt for a narrower design that ensures safe and comfortable access for all users while keeping the cow securely in place.

Making it too light

Our initial goal was a portable stanchion, but finding the sweet spot between mobility and stability was challenging. We learned the hard way that cows could easily push against stanchions that weren't sturdy enough, posing a safety risk. Initially using 4x4 skids, we realized 6x6s were a better choice for balance and durability. Tip: Consider the trade-off between portability and safety, and don't shy away from adding more weight if it means a more secure stanchion.

Having Bracing/Framing Boards Touching the Ground

Early designs had framing boards on the ground, leading to frequent snags on rocks and stumps during movement. Quick Fix: Elevate your stanchion by constructing it on a skid frame made of 6x6s. This setup prevents snagging and makes the stanchion easier to transport. Additionally, make sure back horizontal framing boards are removable to avoid tripping hazards when cows back out.

Installing Permanent Side and End Panels

Initially, we fixed side panels to create a solid chute, which complicated milking and posed safety risks. Solution: Install removable side panels. This adjustment allows for easy access for cleaning and milking, and ensures safety by preventing being trapped between the cow and the structure. Incorporate a latch system to secure panels during transport. Here you can see how we have removed the side panels so it is easier to access the cow.

Setting a fixed headgate size

Our one-size-fits-all approach quickly proved inefficient, as it was too tight for larger cows and too loose for smaller ones. Innovative Adjustment: Implement an adjustable headgate. By securing one board permanently and making the other adjustable, we could cater to different cow sizes, ensuring comfort and preventing escape. Here you can see our smaller Devon cow has a perfect sized headgate for her smaller frame.

In Conclusion

Building a milking cow stanchion requires careful consideration of size, weight, mobility, and flexibility. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can create a safe, efficient, and user-friendly stanchion that meets the needs of both your cows and those tending to them. Remember, the goal is to facilitate a positive experience for everyone involved, ensuring your homesteading efforts are both rewarding and sustainable.