DairyTalk 686: More Milk, More Double Ovulations? Why High Production Can Influence Twinning Risk - by Helmut Demmelhuber

DairyTalk by Helmut Demmelhuber · Sep 23, 2026 · 23m

This podcast episode is based on a technical article examining the biological and economic consequences of twinning in the German Holstein population. Producing two calves from one pregnancy may appear advantageous, but the potential benefit is often outweighed by greater health risks for the cow, higher calf losses, and additional management costs. Although twinning has relatively low heritability, sire choice and accurate recording of affected cow families can still contribute to long-term risk management. Early ultrasound diagnosis is particularly important because identifying twins allows…