UNLOCK GENOMIC INSIGHTS FOR YOUR CROSSBRED HEIFERS

Thanks to innovations at AHDB, UK farmers utilsing crossbred breeding programmes can now benefit from genomic evaluations based on UK conditions. This is a significant step for UK farmers operating such systems and gives them the opportunity for a giant leap forward utilsing genomic technology in their herds. 

AHDB’s crossbred genomic evaluations use single-step across-breed analysis to deliver more reliable genetic predictions and stronger selection decisions for herds using crossbreeding. Single-step genomic evaluation is the gold-standard approach that combines DNA with real-world performance and pedigree information to provide more accurate genetic predictions. For crossbred animals, it helps capture true genetic merit across different breed backgrounds—so you can select the right females, choose the right sires, and build a herd that performs today and for the long term.

WHAT'S INCLUDED?

Across-breed genomic results for crossbred females
Built using single-step across-breed analysis, these evaluations combine DNA with performance and pedigree information to deliver more reliable genetic predictions for crossbreeding herds.

Breed eligibility
Genomic evaluations are available for animals with genetics mainly from:

• Holstein

• British Friesian

• Jersey

• Ayrshire & Scandinavian Red

• Guernsey

Animals must be at least 51% from these breeds to ensure results are compared against the most relevant reference populations.

Traits covered
You will receive genomic evaluations for key performance and profitability drivers:

• Production – milk output and efficiency potential

• Lifespan – likelihood of staying productive for longer

• Somatic Cell Count – indicator of udder health and milk quality potential

• Fertility Index – reproductive performance potential

• Maintenance – supports selection for more cost-effective cows