Dairy Cow Unified Scorecard: Major Trait Descriptions
Dairy Cow Unified Scorecard: Major Trait Descriptions
Dairy Cow Unified Scorecard: Major Trait Descriptions
1) Frame - 15%
The skeletal parts of the cow, with the exception of rear feet and legs. Listed in priority order, the descriptions of the traits to be considered are as follows:
Rump (5 points): Should be long and wide throughout. Pin bones should be slightly lower than hip bones with adequate width between the pins. Thurls
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should be wide apart. Vulva should be nearly vertical and the anus should not be recessed. Tail head should set slightly above and neatly between pin
bones with freedom from coarseness. Front End (5 points): Adequate constitution with front legs straight, wide apart, and squarely placed. Shoulder
blades and elbows set firmly against the chest wall. The crops should have adequate fullness blending into the shoulders. Back/Loin (2 points): Back
should be straight and strong, with loin broad, strong, and nearly level. Stature (2 points): Height including length in the leg bones with a long bone
pattern throughout the body structure. Height at withers and hips should be relatively proportionate. Age and breed stature recommendations are to
be considered. Breed Characteristics (1 point): Exhibiting overall style and balance. Head should be feminine, clean-cut, slightly dished with broad
muzzle, large open nostrils and strong jaw.
Copyrighted by the Purebred Dairy Cattle Association, 1943. Revised and copyrighted 1957, 1971, 1982, 1994 and 2009.
Holstein Foundation, Inc. 5
THE SEVEN BREEDS
6 Dairy Judging