Genetic Relationships Between Claw Disorders and Type Scores

The primary aim of this study was to estimate heritabilities for different types of claw disorders and the genetic relationship between disorders and selected type traits applying logistic models in Holstein dairy cattle. The data included 5634 Holstein cows kept in large-scale dairy farms within Eastern Germany all having a 6-week-possibility after calving to fall ill. Dichotomous response variables were the presence or the absence of the disorder. Genetically, favourable animals were characterized by less disorders or the absence of disorders and high scores for type traits. Genetic correlations were mostly positive between conformation traits describing the structure of feet and legs and individual claw disorders. The genetic correlation between foot angle and sole ulcer was -0.29 and suggests that animals with steeper angles are less susceptible for sole ulcer. Among the other type traits like stature, dairy character