Lineback

Lineback cattle are defined by a historic color pattern as much as by breed identity: a white stripe or broad white back running from the neck toward the tail, often with a white belly and darker sides. In North America the term may refer to American Lineback cattle, Randall or Randall Lineback cattle, or mixed dairy and dual-purpose animals carrying the pattern. Colors can include black, red, brown, roan, or brindle on the sides. Many trace to old New England farm cattle that were kept for milk, meat, and oxen.

Because the name is used in more than one way, buyers should ask whether animals are from a conservation herd, a registered American Lineback program, or simply cattle with lineback markings. Randall cattle, in particular, are treated as a rare landrace with separate conservation concerns. Management depends on the type behind the pattern: dairy-influenced Linebacks need milking or calf-rearing plans, while beefier lines fit small suckler herds. Breeders who want to preserve the look should select for clear markings without ignoring fertility, udder quality, feet, and quiet handling.

Colors: Belted, Black, Black and White, Black Lineback, Blaze Faced, Blue Roan, Blue Roan Lineback, Brindle, Brockle Faced, Brown, Brown and White, Dun, Dun Lineback, Gray, Lineback, Mottled, Red, Red and White, Red Lineback, Red Roan, Roan, Silver, Solid Black, Solid Red, Speckled, Spotted, White, White Faced, Yellow