These resources are brought to you by the Cooperative Extension System and your Local Institution

Dairy Home

Have a question? Try asking one of our Experts

I am concerned about my heifer growth rate. They reach 550 kg at 24 months at the start of lactation. How can I improve this?

Last Updated: August 29, 2007

View as web page


We recommend that large-breed animals should weigh 1350 lb (614 kg) at two weeks before calving and be 22-24 months of age. After expelling the calf and placenta fluids, this heifer would weigh about 1250 lb (568 kg). If you cannot meet these goals, you should review your feeding and management program. Weigh them often, at least every 3 to 4 months. If you do not have a scale, use a weight tape. Dave Fischer, Dairy Educator, University of Illinois - Illini DairyNET Arlyn Heinrichs, Dairy Extension, Penn State Unversity.

Browse related Faqs by tag: dairy cattle


Have a specific question? Try asking one of our Experts

Unlike most other resources on the web, we have experts from Universities around the country ready to answer your questions.