Assessment and Characterization of Linear Type Traits in Hariana Cattle

Abstract

Aims: The present study was undertaken to assess and characterise linear type traits in Hariana cattle using the linear type scoring system of the International Committee for Animal Recording (ICAR, 2018). Study Design: A descriptive observational study was conducted on 30 lactating Hariana cows to evaluate 18 linear type traits representing body, feet and legs, udder, and teat conformation. Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted at the Livestock Farm Complex, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, DUVASU, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, In, from March to December 2025. Methodology: Linear type traits were recorded following ICAR (2018) guidelines. Measurable traits were recorded using standard measuring instruments, whereas angularity, rear legs rear view, front teat placement, and rear teat placement were assessed visually. Each cow was evaluated three times during lactation. For measurable traits, the observed range between the minimum and maximum values was divided into nine equal intervals, and individual observations were assigned scores on a 1-9 linear scale. Average score points (ASP), standard errors, mean values, and frequency distributions were calculated to characterise trait expression. Results: The ASP values for stature, chest width, body depth, rump width, rump angle, angularity, rear legs rear view, rear legs set, and foot angle were 5.36, 5.59, 5.14, 4.39, 5.59, 5.42, 6.73, 4.86, and 5.09, respectively. The corresponding values for fore udder attachment, front teat placement, rear teat placement, teat length, udder depth, rear udder height, central ligament, rear udder width, and teat thickness were 5.29, 5.05, 5.47, 3.86, 5.48, 3.73, 4.90, 3.59, and 4.67, respectively. Most traits showed intermediate expression, while rear legs rear view tended towards parallel hind-leg alignment. Conclusion: Most linear type traits in Hariana cows showed intermediate expression, with variation among individual traits. The findings provide baseline information on Hariana cattle conformation and may support further evaluation of these traits for their potential use in selection and breed improvement programmes.