CKC1586
Well-known member
I have been reading about the calving problems here and have myself nervous as I am about 3 weeks away from the first calf being due. This will be the first year I will be ALONE and on my own for calving. My mentors will both be out of state. I need to think about something else.
Many times the cow that may not be the "prettiest" or most perfect conformation produces some really great calves. She may have good genetics but a fault or two.
So, let me hear your opinions on why/how you select your cows in relation to conformation. I know that you don't want the sires to be too wide shouldered because of calving ease, you want a cow with a good topline, same reason, right? But what about the cow that may not be as "correct", what would you determine to be a red flag and the reason you would not select her. I have heard folks comment "she breaks behind the shoulder" what would this contribute to as a problem as a breeder? Let me hear what you will tolerate in conformation and what you will not.
Thanks.
Many times the cow that may not be the "prettiest" or most perfect conformation produces some really great calves. She may have good genetics but a fault or two.
So, let me hear your opinions on why/how you select your cows in relation to conformation. I know that you don't want the sires to be too wide shouldered because of calving ease, you want a cow with a good topline, same reason, right? But what about the cow that may not be as "correct", what would you determine to be a red flag and the reason you would not select her. I have heard folks comment "she breaks behind the shoulder" what would this contribute to as a problem as a breeder? Let me hear what you will tolerate in conformation and what you will not.
Thanks.