What do judges generally look for during livestock shows?

Judges at livestock shows primarily focus on conformation because it refers to the overall structural quality and physical appearance of the animal in relation to the breed standard. An animal with good conformation will have a body structure that is well-proportioned, functional, and representative of its breed traits. This aspect is crucial because it can influence the animal's ability to perform tasks, breed successfully, and maintain health over time.

While other factors like temperament, weight, and color may still be considered, they do not hold as much significance in the competitive context. For instance, temperament may affect how the animal behaves during the show but does not directly relate to how well it conforms to breed standards. Weight is important for ensuring the animal is within a healthy range but does not address skeletal structure or overall form. Color can be a preference in some breeds but typically does not impact the overall evaluation of the animal's quality in a show setting. Thus, conformation remains the primary criteria for judging in livestock shows.