EN
This paper presented the current views and results of research on the nutrition and growth criteria of dairy heifers with special reference to the Holstein-Friesian (HF) reed. Factors affecting the development of mammary gland, the age of sexual maturity and the effect of feeding level of heifers in their growth period on reproductive performance and some economic aspects of milk utilization of the cows were discussed. The effects of feeding intensity and growth rate of the heifers in different rearing periods on body dimensions, weight and condition at first calving, on health in the periparturient period and on subsequent milk production were also analysed. Methods of modifying body dimensions and composition by nutrition and currently recommended growth criterias for Holstein-Friesian heifers of the modern genotype were also discussed.