Milk production, composition, and reproductive performance of crossbred dairy stock on smallholder dairying in South Western Ethiopia

Regular evaluation of dairy stock performance under current management practices is essential for the success of dairy production and crossbreeding programs. However, the lack of up-to-date, comprehensive, and location-specific information hinders the implementation of effective intervention strategies to enhance dairy productivity in the tropics. This study aimed to assess the reproductive performance, milk yield, and quality of crossbred dairy stock in the Lemo district. A total of 178 households were surveyed, and 53 milk samples were collected for laboratory analysis. The results indicated that enset leaf and pseudo-stem, pasture, and cereal crop residues were the primary feed resources. Breeding methods included 50% bull service and 33% artificial insemination (AI). The mean daily milk yield of crossbred cows was 7.1±1.27 liters/day. Milk yield varied significantly (p<0.05) based on agro-ecology, income source, experience, training, feed supplements, water provision, and landholding. The mean age at first service and age at first calving were 27.58±2.14 and 36.65±2.70 months, respectively. The average calving interval was 17.36±0.93 months, which exceeds the recommended ranges. The mean values of fat, protein, SNF, lactose, and total solids were 4.46±1.98, 3.21±0.20, 8.85±0.5, 4.9±0.38, and 13.29±1.8, respectively. The compositional quality of milk varied significantly (p<0.05) among dairy genotypes, meeting the minimum Ethiopian standards. A smallholder dairy program focusing on improving breeding methods and providing capacity-building training is recommended for dairy producers.