Genetics for the Modern Milking Cow
Genomic advancements and Robotic Milking data have improved the prediction of progeny performance for both conformation and milking ability in robotic systems. By combining genetic markers, laser-based Robotic Milking data, and proprietary genomic evaluations, producers can now identify efficient, high-producing cows with strong attachment, calm milking behavior, consistent milk-out, and improved performance in modern dairy operations.
Efficient milking starts with functional udder structure: Well-positioned teats, adequate teat length, and a level udder support fast attachment, complete milk-out, and smoother milking performance in both conventional and robotic systems.
STgenetics® Research on Modern Milking Traits
For more than five years, STgenetics® has collected over 2.5 million daily Robotic Milking records from more than 15,000 cows at different research herds, STgenetics® dairy research facility along with several partner farms. This research led to the development of the Robotic Cow Index (RCI), the industry’s first genomic evaluation for modern milking genetics based on Robotic Milking data.
Building on this research, STgenetics® introduced new laser-measured digital traits in April 2026, including Digital Front Teat Distance (DFTD), Rear Teat Distance (DRTD), Teat Length (DTL), and Udder Tilt (DUT).
From Visual Scoring to Objective Digital Traits
This approach represents a significant step forward in accuracy, replacing subjective visual scoring with highly precise, data-driven measurements. With heritability estimates exceeding 35%, these traits respond well to selection, enabling producers to make more effective breeding decisions and drive measurable improvements in udder conformation and milking efficiency in the next generation.
Adding New Laser-Measured Precision Traits
What changes have been made to the Robotic Cow Index to include new genomic milking traits?
STgenetics® continues to advance research on automated milking performance by using laser-based measurements from Robotic Milking systems to capture precise udder and teat conformation data. These objective measurements are collected at every milking, throughout the cow’s lactating life. By linking this data to specific DNA markers, STgenetics® has developed genomic evaluations for Digital Front Teat Distance (DFTD), Digital Rear Teat Distance (DRTD), Digital Teat Length (DTL), and Digital Udder Tilt (DUT); traits with high heritability, strong genetic signal, and clear biological meaning.
Measuring Calm, Efficient Milking Behavior
Milking Temperament Score
Cows that remain calm and comfortable while being milked allow for faster attachment and more efficient milk-out. As a result, Milking Temperament Score (MTS) has become an increasingly important trait in modern dairy operations. Traditionally, the industry has relied on subjective temperament scoring to develop genomic evaluations. STgenetics® has taken a more data-driven approach by developing a formula that calculates Milking Temperament using real-time Robotic Milking system data. This includes Pre-Treatment Time (8%), Udder Scan Time (15%), Connect Time (30%), Post-Treatment Time (30%), and Residual Box Time (17%).
MTS is expressed as a ranking, where higher scores indicate more desirable cows, those that spend less time in each stage of the milking process. This objective, precision-based method provides a more accurate and actionable way to select for cows that perform efficiently in modern milking systems
How can producers utilize these new modern milking traits in their breeding program?
STgenetics® STrategy™ platform will allow you to unlock powerful insights into your genomic evaluations from Genetic Visions-ST™ and help you identify the best modern milking candidates in your herd. Within the platform, you can evaluate key traits such as Digital Front and Rear Teat Distance, Digital Teat Length, Digital Udder Tilt, Milking Temperament Score, and the Robotic Cow Index. These traits can be used alongside core production metrics to sort and rank females, enabling more precise and strategic mating decisions. By pairing top females with STgenetics® sires in 4M™ semen that excel in milking efficiency and production traits through Chromosomal Mating®, producers can accelerate genetic progress. Because these traits are highly heritable and based on objective, precision-driven data, selection decisions made today will drive measurable improvements in milking performance, efficiency, and overall herd profitability in the next generation.
STgenetics® is leading the way in delivering genomic insight into key milking traits, empowering producers to breed cows that are healthier, more efficient, and more profitable in modern dairy systems.
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