Breeding for efficiency

Over the last two years Arthur Owen has increased milk production from 6,788 litres and 568kg milk solids per cow per year to 7,200 litres and 599 kg solids.

Working towards improving herd efficiency using farm data to make better breeding decision has been a focus for Arthur who farms at Bodysgaw Isa, one of our strategic dairy farms.

When selecting bulls he looks for good fertility, which is important for his autumn calving herd, as well as selecting for fat and protein since it suits his contract.

Over the last two years his approach has increased both milk production and solids per cow. 

At an industry level breeding choices have moved away from production to focus on health and fertility traits in recent years.

Any decisions should be based on the goals that are right for individual farms in five to ten years’ time, not today’s problems. Genetics can be a permanent fix for some of the issues you want to address.

The first step is benchmark to understand your strengths and weaknesses using a Herd Genetic Report to show your cows potential and guide bull choices.

Marco Winters, head of animal genetics said: “It only takes a minute to breed a cow, but it can take a lifetime to breed out any wrong decisions.”

Top tips when making dairy breeding decisions:

• Set a breeding goal - know where you want to be in 10 years’ time
• Understand UK indexes available to help you get there
• Use Herd Genetic Report to guide your bull choices
• Select bulls using criteria applicable to your herd
• If bulls are missing independent AHDB UK data – ask for it.
• Use AHDB semen available reports to simplify it
• Don’t be afraid to ask questions, and let your breeding adviser explain any choices
• Remember to buy semen, don’t be sold semen