ABSTRACT
The most successful dairymen combine form and function by breeding for production--then culling for type and production. Milk production and reproduction are the primary functions of dairy cows. Cows that will perform these functions profitably and be pleasing to the eye--have a beautiful form—are the answer to a dairyman's prayers. To put the dairy cattle geneticist's dilemma in proper perspective we need to consider the correlation between type traits and milk production. High "type" cattle are of economic importance to some breeders due to their show-ring activities and the sale of breeding stock. The Linear Scoring System is an integral part of herd improvement programs sponsored by any of the industry organizations. Sires should be selected on an Index system according to the ratio of type value to the herd's milk income. Most breed associations have a Type Production Index as a formula 3:1:1 milk, fat %, and type ratio.
