Dairy cattle judging has been very important to dairy farmers and dairy cattle breeders for years. The goal is to have show-winning cows with excellent type conformation. It is difficult to determine the dollar value of type, but cows and bulls in high demand are usually ones with excellent milk production and good type.
Being able to evaluate type conformation requires a lot of hard work and training. You can learn this and have a great time, too, through the 4-H dairy judging program. You will learn how to evaluate type by making comparisons and accurate observations that lead to decision making. You will also learn the importance of type as it relates to production (for example, sound feet and legs and udders that are attached strongly and carried above the hock).
Giving oral reasons helps you learn to express yourself concisely. It also helps you think more clearly, improve your memory, and develop confidence in yourself.
Type
“Functional type,” a term related to dairy cattle judging, is important to all dairy producers because certain type traits (strength of udder support, feet and legs, and body size) are positively related genetically to longer herd life and higher lifetime production. Body conformation that is suitable for efficient milking and management allows cows to live long, productive lives.
Parts of a Dairy Cow
The first thing you need to do in learning to judge dairy cattle is learn the names of the parts of the dairy cow. Study the diagram below thoroughly and learn each part.
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