Crossbreeding?
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We have had great success with crossbreeding Holstein and Guernsey here. We like the frame (larger than a Jersey/Holstein cross) of the Guernsey cross and the feet and udders have not suffered. Their temperaments are superb and they seem to milk and test well”
- Diane Miller, Chesapeake, MD
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We started out breeding all the heifers to Guernsey sires for calving ease, but we were pleasantly surprised by how well the crosses performed, and we have not had any problems with the second and third crosses (most to Guernsey sires). They have milked and lasted really well too.”
-Tom Ripley, Cortland, New York
The Guernsey Advantage
Farm Tested Results
Ripley Farms, Cortland, New York
November 2004 Test Day
71 Guernsey x Holstein
RHA: 22,747M 4.2% 952F 3.1% 699P
Test Day: 63.8M 4.3%Fat 2.74# 3.2% Prot 2.04#
13.5 Month Calving Interval
Difficult Births 0%
Days to First Service 109
"We have been crossbreeding Holsteins with Guernseys for a while now. Mainly Holstein heifers bred to our Guernsey bull. The crosses have had nice conformation with a large frame, great feet and udders, and most important, they can milk. I like the vigor in the crosses. They are easier to settle.” - Robin Marsh, Cornelius, Oregon
102 Holsteins
RHA: 23,141M 3.8% 888F 3.0% 689P
Test Day: 63.8M 3.9% Fat 2.49# 3.1% Prot 1.98#
15.9 Calving Interval
Difficult Births 7%
Days to First Service 119
"My crossbred cows have easily calved with both Holstein and Guernsey-sired calves with no problems.I feel the Guernsey pelvis is shaped differently than the Holstein’s. This difference carries through to the crossbreds and results in much easier calvings.”
- Seth Spencer, Lebanon, Oregon