Newborn dairy calves (n = 82) were investigated for relations between frequency and intensity of sucking movements at the one hand and course of parturition, values of a modified Apgar-Score, time between birth and first standing as well as parameters in the blood (lactate, glucose, immunoglobulins, pH, base excess, pCO2) and the incidence of newborn diseases at the other hand. In another group 101 dairy and 533 crossbred calves (dairy x beef) were compared with regard to the course of parturition, vitality, sucking behaviour and the ability to stand and drink without help 12 hours post natum. Sucking behaviour can be recommended as a criterion of vitality alone or as part of a modified Apgar-Score. A frequency of 80 and more intensive sucking movements/min sucking time and the ability to stand and drink without human help within 12 hours post natum are physiological. In milk x beef crossbred calves this ability can be impaired even in cases of normal birth.