Developing Cattle Breeding Developing Cattle Breeding Program Program

Setting of goals is of major importance and includes goals for:

1.2.3.4.

Breeding management will impact each of

above in varying degrees.

1.

2.

Once goals established, herd assessment is needed – where is herd at?

1.2.3.

Larger frame cows have higher maintenance costs.

Larger frame feedlot cattle:

1.

2.

3.

4.a.b.

Bringing about genetic change 1. Selection

2. Mating systems

Inbreeding

Outbreeding

Crossbreeding – two reasons1. For certain traits may result in

heterosis

avg of avg of

% heterosis = crossbreeds – purebreds x 100

avg of purebreds

a.

2. Breed complementarity – implies using breeds in a crossbreeding program

where their strengths and weaknesses

complement one another

a.

1.)

Composite breeds – have gained in

popularity, reasons: 1.2.3.

Formed Retained % of Improved from maximum productivity

heterosis of cow herd (%)

2 – breed 50 12 3 – breed 67 15 4 – breed 75 17

Successful breeding program depends on:

1. Accurate collection of data and interpretation

2. Maintaining proper contemporary groups

a.b.