There is no perfect animal. ADGA has Linear Appraisers and AGS has Classifiers; both are trained in evaluating the 17 traits of a dairy animal for strengths and weaknesses. An animal is compared to a "fictitious" perfect animal. Breeders can learn to evaluate their own herd and make better breeding decisions. By researching progeny, siblings, and extended family, a breeder can make an educated guess on whether certain traits can be passed down or "thrown."
Trained judges use similar traits to evaluate with a Unified Scorecard in the showring. The ANDDA newsletters often publish a Scorecard Segment where one trait will be discussed by a trained judge or Appraiser/Classifier. Learning about one trait can help a breeder evaluate their herd and determine if a certain trait weakness is widespread in the herd. If so, decisions on bringing in a new buck that throws a strength in that trait can be considered.
