DairyTalk 317: Heifer Growth Management: How Growth Rate Shapes Future Milk Production - by Helmut Demmelhuber

DairyTalk by Helmut Demmelhuber · Mar 6, 2026 · 18m

This podcast episode draws on a professional article examining the relationship between heifer growth management and future milk production. Particular attention is given to the period between three and nine months of age, when mammary tissue develops most intensively and nutritional management becomes especially critical. Research discussed in the article indicates that daily gains of roughly 1.8 to 1.9 pounds support optimal development, whereas excessively rapid growth may reduce later milk yield. The concept of compensatory growth is also explored, showing how targeted high-energy diets…