Choosing the Right Cow: Dairy vs Beef

What are the main factors considered in selecting dairy cows and beef cows?

A. Weaning weight for dairy cows and easy handling for beef cows

B. High milk production for dairy cows and ability to birth healthy calves for beef cows

C. Longevity for dairy cows and structural stability for beef cows

D. Straight posture for dairy cows and uniform color for beef cows

Answer:

Dairy cows are chosen based on their high milk production, while beef cows are selected for their ability to nurture healthy, strong calves.

The selection process for dairy cows and beef cows significantly varies. Dairy cows are primarily chosen based on their high milk production. Appropriate EPD (Expected Progeny Differences) in dairy cows focus on traits related to milk yield and quality. This ensures a profitable return as the primary purpose of dairy cows is producing milk. On the other hand, beef cows are selected for their ability to birth and mother hardy calves. The Expected Progeny Differences in beef cows focus on traits that contribute to calf survival and growth, as the goal is to produce beef and not milk. This contrast highlights the different end products and selection priorities for each industry.