Comparative study based on the milk production and reproductive performance of the Hungarian and Swiss dairy cow farms

The aim of this study was to compare the two different milk production systems, based on the milk production and the reproductive performance of the Hungarian and Swiss dairy cow farms. The Swiss cows had higher lactation number (P < 0.001) and the chance becomes 3.3 times higher (P < 0.001) for the cow to reach the fourth lactation, than in Hungary. At the same time the Hungarian cows had a significantly higher milk yield during their whole life (P < 0.001) and showed a higher increase in milk production during the first two lactations than the Swiss cows. The Hungarian cows reached their maximum milk production in the second lactation while the Swiss cows reached it only in the third lactation. There was no significant difference (P=1.444) in the somatic cell count (SCC) during the first lactation but there was from the second lactation (P < 0.001). There was no significant difference (P=0.663) in the interval between calving and first service but the interval between calving and conception was significantly longer in the Hungarian cows compared to Swiss cows (P < 0.001). The average protein content differed significantly but not relevantly, however the average fat content was significantly higher in case of Swiss cows compared to Hungarian cows (P < 0.001). The goal of the Swiss breeders is not to have very high milk production, but the longevity and the high life-performance. In Hungary cows are selected for high milk yielding and easy milking, while in Switzerland the percentage of milk protein and fat is more emphasized over quantity.