Dairy Cattle
Got milk? The dairy project is for youth wanting to learn more about caring, raising and managing dairy animals.
4-H members usually start with a heifer calf or yearling heifer learning how to select, lead and show. 4-H members with mature cows learn about feeding and milk production.
Things to Learn/Do in the Project
Age 7-9
- Identify the six breeds of dairy cattle
- Identify the body parts of a cow
- Select and raise a diary calf
Age 10-13
- Judge a class of diary cows
- Discuss animal health issues
- Identify safe practices for handling milk and milk products
Age 14 and Older
- Evaluate the body condition of dairy animals
- Learn about animal welfare issues
- Determine the nutritional quality of dairy feed
- Explore career options in the dairy industry
Project Materials
Reasonably priced materials are available for every project in Kansas 4-H. You can order the materials for your project online or contact your local Extension Office.
Dairy Bucket Calf (DC100)
Dairy Heifer (DC200)
Dairy Cow (DC300)
Project Leader Resources
General Dairy Cattle Resources
Related Resources - Veterinary Science
- From Airdales to Zebras (ages 7-10)
- All Systems Go (ages 11-13)
- On the Cutting Edge (ages 14+)
- Veterinary Science Helper's Guide
- Nebraska 4-H Veterinary Science
- Holstein Foundation Educational Workbooks (7 including Dairy Judging and Showmanship)
Downloads
Awards and Recognition
*Includes both Dairy Cattle and Dairy Goats
County Level
Award: Medal presented at your 4-H Achievement Banquet
State Level
Award: Medallion
National Level
Award: $400 National 4-H Congress Scholarship