The objectives of the course are to provide knowledge about the different breeds of domestic species with particular attention to the morphological differences arising from the different selection plans. At the end of the course the student will know the main breeds of domestic animals, their appearances and peculiarities and their diffusion on the national and foreign territory. The skills of the students at the end of the course will be: to identify and describe an animal based on its specific breed; to evaluate the distinctive morphological traits of each breed and the qualitative and quantitative features of the morphological traits. Through the knowledge acquired and the skills achieved, the student will finally have the essential skills to understand the main differences in production traits with particular attention to the importance of safeguarding biodiversity; to recognize the traits that allow a subject to become a good reproducer. DOC acquired: Handle and restrain animal patient safely and with respect of the animal, and instruct others in helping the veterinarian perform this technique (1.16); Assess the physical condition, welfare and nutritional status of an animal or group of animals and advise the client on principles of husbandry and feeding (1.20).