The main new message from the present study is
that TPD, especially in the middle and posterior position
of the udder, is the most important udder characteristic
affecting teat use in all breeds. The results of
this study showed that, on average, almost 22% of the
functional teats are not being used on d 1 after birth.
Use declined from anterior to posterior teats, especially
in the lower teat row. To maintain teat functionality,
it is essential that teats are used on d 1. Overall, these
results underline the importance of emphasizing udder
morphological traits, such as TPD, in the breeding
program rather than just the number of functional teats