1. Developing Cattle Breeding Program Setting of goals is of major importance and includes goals for: 1. 2. 3. 4.

2. 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.

3. Larger frame cows have higher maintenance costs.

4. Larger frame feedlot cattle: 1. 2. 3. 4. a. b.

7. Bringing about genetic change 1. Selection 2. Mating systems Inbreeding

8. Outbreeding Crossbreeding – two reasons 1. For certain traits may result in heterosis avg of avg of % heterosis = crossbreeds – purebreds x 100 avg of purebreds a.

10. 2. Breed complementarity – implies using breeds in a crossbreeding program where their strengths and weaknesses complement one another a. 1.)

11. 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

14. Successful breeding program depends on: 1. Accurate collection of data and interpretation 2. Maintaining proper contemporary groups a. b.