Breed Associations & Registries

What Are Breed Associations & Registries?

Breed associations are member-owned organizations that maintain official herdbooks for purebred dairy cattle. They verify pedigrees, register animals, conduct classification programs, and coordinate genetic evaluations. In the United States, major associations include Holstein Association USA, American Jersey Cattle Association, and associations for Brown Swiss, Guernsey, Ayrshire, Milking Shorthorn, and Red & White cattle.

Why Register Your Animals?

Registration provides official documentation of an animal's breeding, parentage, and genetic information. While commercial dairy farmers can operate successfully without registered animals, registration offers several advantages:

Key Benefits

• Verified pedigrees: Official documentation of ancestry for breeding decisions
• Higher sale values: Registered animals typically command premium prices
• Classification programs: Official type evaluations that help guide breeding
• Genetic evaluations: Access to genomic testing and official genetic indexes
• Show eligibility: Required for participation in official shows and exhibitions
• Export documentation: Often required for international cattle sales

Registration Process

Registration typically involves:

1. Membership: Joining the breed association (annual fees typically $50-200)
2. Animal registration: Submitting birth information, parentage verification, and required fees
3. Parentage verification: DNA testing is often required to confirm sire and dam
4. Transfer recording: Updating ownership when animals are bought or sold

Major U.S. Dairy Breed Associations

Holstein Association USA

The largest dairy breed registry in the world, representing the dominant U.S. dairy breed. Offers extensive services including genetic evaluations, classification, and the TPI (Total Performance Index) genetic ranking system.

American Jersey Cattle Association

Second largest U.S. dairy registry, known for the breed's high butterfat and protein content. Provides JPI (Jersey Performance Index) evaluations and extensive research programs.

Other Breed Associations

Brown Swiss, Guernsey, Ayrshire, Milking Shorthorn, and Red & White cattle each have dedicated associations offering registration, classification, and genetic programs tailored to their breeds.

Do You Need to Register?

Consider registration if:

• You sell breeding stock and want to maximize sale prices
• You participate in shows or exhibitions
• You want access to official classification and genetic programs
• You're interested in improving your herd's genetic merit over time
• You export animals internationally

Registration may not be necessary if:

• You operate a closed herd focused solely on milk production
• You don't sell breeding stock
• Cost considerations limit your investment in genetic documentation

Cost Considerations

Annual membership fees range from $50-200 depending on the association. Per-animal registration fees typically range from $15-50, with additional costs for DNA testing ($20-40) and transfer fees ($10-25). Many associations offer discounts for early registration and electronic submissions.