Milking Shorthorn cattle are continuing to increase in production and popularity as a recognized dairy breed. Ease of management and calving ease are two aspects of Milking Shorthorns that breeders rank highly. Lower veterinarian bills and longevitiy are also noted by dairymen. Mature Milking Shorthorns average over 15,000 pounds milk, 500 pounds fat and 465 pounds protein. The Milking Shorthorn breed is noted for its high protein to fat ratio which is increasingly desirable in milk marketed today.

Even your neighbors will remark about the non-generic, beautifully colored red, white and roan Milking Shorthorn cows grazing on the green grass. You will love their gentle dispositions - such an asset when working with cattle in pasutres, lanes and unsophisticated milking parlors. Best of all, the Milking Shorthorns' hardy, trouble-free attributes will give you that extra time for family and other pursuits.

HISTORICAL INFLUENCE
Even though most present-day Milking Shorthorn breeders are specialists in the production of milk, there is still an unbroken legacy carried over from the time the breed was widely recognized as general farm cattle that were expected to efficiently convert roughtages, including grass, into milk. Grazing for Milking Shorthorns is as natural as roosting is to a hen!

BREED IMPROVEMENT
Milking Shorthorns are competitive milk producers. In a program designed to continually improve the milk producing capabilities of the Milking Shorthorn cow while retaining her overall economic advantages, Australian Illawarra Shorthorn, North American Red Holstein and Norwegian Red bloodlines have been introduced in varying degrees to a large portion of the breed.

Has this been successful? Management data taken from the 1995 Minnesota DHIA summary showed Milking Shorthorns ranking second of the six major dairy breeds in yearly rolling herd average by pounds of milk while having the lowest feed cost per CWT milk!