DairyTalk 295: Restoring Genetic Diversity: Longevity and Functional Strength Over Uniform Genetics - by Helmut Demmelhuber

This episode builds on a technical article addressing the growing
level of inbreeding in Holstein breeding programs and its
economic implications. It examines how the dominance of a limited
number of sires, largely driven by major artificial insemination
companies, has narrowed the genetic base and pushed inbreeding
rates close to ten percent. The resulting decline in milk yield,
fertility, and overall robustness directly affects herd
profitability. The podcast discusses the strategic response of
independent breeders who prioritize deeper cow families,
functional traits, and broader genetic diversity. European
breeding approaches and research on crossbreeding are considered
as reference points for strengthening long-term resilience within
the Holstein population. With comments on a "The
Bullvine"-article (February 18th, 2026) by Andrew Hunt:
https://www.thebullvine.com