DairyTalk 653: Different Names, Same Genetics: Why Inbreeding Often Hides in the Pedigree - by Helmut Demmelhuber

DairyTalk by Helmut Demmelhuber · Sep 13, 2026 · 21m

This podcast episode is based on technical articles examining the hidden inbreeding risks created by intensive selection in modern dairy breeding. The central issue is why checking a bull against a cow's obvious male ancestors can create a false sense of security, as important genetic relationships may be buried deep within maternal pedigrees. The articles explain how elevated inbreeding can affect fertility, calf survival, and the expression of recessive genetic defects, making complete pedigree analysis based on unique animal identities increasingly important. At the same time, breeding…