Sensor-Based and Visual Behavioral Profiling of Dry Holstein Cows Presenting Distinct Median Core Body Temperatures.

The consequences of heat stress during the dry period can extend into the postpartum period, affecting health and productivity in the subsequent lactation. We hypothesized that cows with distinct core body temperatures (CBTs) would exhibit disparate behaviors associated with different degrees of heat generation or dissipation. The primary objective was to investigate behavioral differences of dry Holstein cows ( = 50) classified as high-temperature (HT) or low-temperature (LT), based on median CBT during the summer months using visual observations and accelerometer technology.