21 Mar Breed Traits for Mini Jerseys

Written by Tim O’Donnell for the IMCBR (International Miniature Cattle Breeds Society & Registry) “2001”

COLOR

Light fawn to red to dark brown to shades of black. Some white permissible.

HEAD

Broad forehead, tapering gracefully toward the muzzle with a dish face. Strong lower jaw, with jaws meeting properly. A distinguishing white or light colored band around the mussel. Eyes should be bright and prominent, wide spread and bulging, thus the saying, “Rabbit-Eyed Jersey”.

NECK

Well set into the shoulders, not too thick or too short. It should flow gracefully into the body

HORNS

Most Lessor Jersey’s are naturally polled animals, however, miniature Jersey’s with horns are acceptable.

BODY

Cow

Well-proportioned regarding height to length. The small Jersey should resemble their larger counter-part completely in every aspect as to dairy type and individual. The typical cow will be refined, feminine appearance with ample substance. A straight underline with udder firmly attached front and rear with strong center support. Udder and teats should be of moderate size with teats of equal size squarely placed on an udder with clearly defined halving. Animals should exhibit sharpness and strength indicating productive efficiency. Udder should show traits that contribute to high milk yield and a long productive life.

Bull

The typical bull will show a masculine appearance with ample substance. Disposition should be very docile and quiet. Gentleness a must. Their legs will be short to moderate, but not excessively long, and well placed under the body; forelegs straight and squarely placed; hind legs nearly perpendicular from hock to pastern when viewed from the side and straight when viewed from the rear. Feet short, well rounded with deep heel, level sole, and toes properly placed.

WEIGHT

Cows at three years of age and over should not exceed 700 pounds live weight. Bulls at three years of age and over should not exceed 900 pounds live weight.

HEIGHT

Mature animals must be 42″ or under at three years of age to be classified as miniature, or over 43″ up to 48″ at maturity to be classified as Mid-Size. Measurement is taken at the Hook bone located directly in front of the hip bone.

BREEDING

Must be approved breeding-an animal must not be the result of inbreeding (inbreeding is defined as more than 50% influence of an ancestor).

REGISTRATION

A picture of each animal being registered must accompany each application. Certificates are TEMPORARY until maturity (three years of age) at which time height measurement is required for permanent registry. Breed of ancestors must be listed on pedigree, if available.