DairyTalk 578: Selection without discipline: how compromise blocks genetic progress - by Helmut Demmelhuber

DairyTalk by Helmut Demmelhuber · Sep 5, 2026 · 18m

This podcast episode draws on a technical article by Helmut Demmelhuber, examining the most costly strategic mistakes in dairy breeding. It highlights how errors in mating and selection often remain hidden for years before causing significant economic damage. The analysis emphasizes the need for a clear breeding objective and a consistent focus on correcting individual cow weaknesses. It also underlines why functional traits such as fertility and health must take priority over visual characteristics. Ultimately, breeding is framed as a disciplined management process aimed at long-term…