02/05/2022
EDIT: A huge thanks to Courtney DuCharme for sharing this awesome graphic. It provides the ideal ranges for each of the linear traits. I think it's worth it's weight in gold! I tried to find the original internet posting with no luck. But I have provided a link to this photo on my website, under useful links, so it doesn't get lost.
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As the kidding/milking season is set to begin on my farm I am pouring over all of the information I can regarding goat conformation so I can make the best decisions possible regarding improving my herd this coming year. But there are things I am not yet clear on. Maybe someone can help me better understand? I am looking for some insight as to how to most effectively use the ADGA linear appraisal system/traits information found online. Specifically the pictures for each trait. We are provided with 3 examples per trait. The first picture (the lowest score) is always the least desirable so that part is easy to comprehend. Then there is an intermediate picture and an extreme picture. Many times I've heard it said that the middle picture is what we are trying to strive for and that does seem to be true for things like the medial ligament cleft and the sickle hocks. I also, personally, am not a fan of the extremely level rump. But for things like fore udder attachment, rear udder height and arch, rump width....aren't we looking more for the extreme? Or am I missing something?https://adga.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/LABOOKLETALL_19.pdf