Genetic and phenotypic relationships among type traits scored linearly in Holsteins

Phenotypic and genetic parameters were estimated for 12 type traits of Holstein cows scored linearly by personnel of an artificial insemination organization. Estimates were compared with those from programs offered by the breed association and by two other artificial insemination organizations. All programs were based on scoring guidelines of the National Association of Animal Breeders. Heritabilities of linear type traits ranged from .40 for stature to .14 for fore udder attachment with heritabilities for udder traits smaller than for nonudder traits. Largest genetic and phenotypic correlations were among udder traits with genetic correlations consistently exceeding phenotypic correlations. Similarities in relative magnitudes of phenotypic and genetic parameters suggest that linear type appraisal programs do not differ greatly among organizations using scoring guidelines of the National Association of Animal Breeders.