Breeding
Evaluation
The cut-off values suggested are based on recommendations in Sweden. Find out which recommendations apply in your country.
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Genome testing of female animals
Yes
No
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Breeding value, Hoof Health Index
A breeding value of 100 represents the mean breeding value in the population, values above indicate a better breeding value and below a worse breeding value. A breeding value of 110 represents the 16% best bulls.
Over 110
Under 100
For best results
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Do not breed using animals with poor hoof health and/or abnormal claw shapes such as corkscrew claw, asymmetry or scissor claw.
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Cull cows with chronic hoof problems.
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Include hoof health in your breeding strategy.
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Genome test your females to achieve faster breeding progress.
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Select bulls with a high breeding value for hoof health and check the different breeding values for the type of hoof disorder affecting the herd.
Tips!
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If you choose to breed an animal with poor hoof health, inseminate with or use a beef bull so that the bad traits are not inherited in the herd.
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If a bull is used on a small number of animals, it is preferable to use a beef bull so that any bad traits are not inherited in the dairy herd.
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There is a strong association between good hoof health, survival and sustainability.
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Recording hoof health makes it possible to create a reliable Hoof Health Index.