Relationships of Udder Conformation with Labor and Machine Inputs to Milk Harvest in Dairy Cattle

Abstract

Udder type and physical measurements of udders and teats of Holsteins and Jerseys were studied to determine associations with labor and milking machine inputs to harvest milk. Among udder traits evaluated in type classification, only udder quality and udder support were associated with labor inputs to milking. Among Holsteins, both udder traits were associated slightly with labor inputs to milking, with udder quality the better predictor. Udder quality of Holsteins accounted for part of the increased labor and machine inputs to milking due to age-parity of survivors. Cows with larger udder (Holstein) and rear teat measurements (both breeds) required more labor and machine inputs to milking than cows having small mammary dimensions. Postmilking dimensions of the udder were associated most closely with labor and machine inputs. Results support the contention by dairymen that less desirable udder conformation means increased cost of milk harvest. Selection for more desirable udder conformation should decrease milking costs slowly.