Influence of morphofunctional properties of udder on milk productivity of black-and-white cows with different breeding origin

The cattle breeding intensification nowadays sets special requirements on dairy cows. Great attention is paid to such animals that are able to produce a large amount of milk and have udders well adapted to milking by modern milking machines. Studies on the influence of morphofunctional properties of udder of full-aged black-and-white cows of Holstein and Estonian breeding lines on milk productivity were conducted in 2021 under the conditions of the agricultural production co- operative SPK “Dubrovka” situated in the Dedovichi Rayon of the Pskov Region. Milk productivity, morphological and functional udder properties have been studied. As regards milk yield for lactation, Holstein-bred cows have outperformed Estonian-bred cows by 236 kg, or 7.1%, respectively, with similar milk fat content. Animals with a cup-shaped udder have shown greater milk yield: Holstein breed animals have produced 354 kg and cows of Estonian breeding 316 kg more milk than their herd mates that have a rounded udder shape. At the same time, the cup-shaped udder shape has been found in 78% of Holstein cows and in 66% of Estonian-bred cows.