In recent decades, cattle in Burkina Faso have been crossbred without any clear long-term management of the introduced genes. The socio-economic characteristics of producers can provide an insight into the management of genetic resources. This study was designed to investigate these characteristics and the management of bovine genetic resources in Burkina Faso. A survey of 735 producers from all 13 regions of Burkina Faso was conducted. The results showed that the farmers were mainly men (98.91%) over 40 years of age (80.44%). Extensive (57.69%) and semi-intensive (41.9%) farming systems were dominant, with the majority of farmers being sedentary (78.82%). Food resources included natural grazing, crop residues, agro-industrial by-products, and minerals. The use of these resources varied depending on the season. Farming objectives varied and included milk production, sales, traction, manure production and cultural reasons. While farmers have access to veterinary services, some also use traditional medicine (10.56%). The Fulani zebu, which was reared by 97.9% of the sample, was the dominant breed and was found throughout the country. It was sometimes found alongside other breeds. Crossbreds were found among 16.15% of farmers. Breeders mainly chose their male breeding stock on the basis of conformation, growth, temperament, tail length, colour, and body size. However, there was very little mating control. Crossbreeding between zebus and taurines threatens the existence of the latter. The typology shows three groups of breeders with a significant link to the administrative regions. Action is required to ensure the sustainability of crossbreeding practices.