Dairy Cattle Genotyping Services

XytoVet offers a full 50K genomic test for dairy cows that is fully verified by DataGene. There are over 40 traits and indices included in the test, such as mastitis resistance, milk production, calving ease, Balanced Performance Index (BPI) and Sustainability Index (SI). These are useful for both improving genetic gain and overall herd performance.

We upload all data to be reported via DataVat, DataGene’s web portal that gives producers access to reports and information related to the genetic evaluation system.

We are also able to customise our testing to reflect the traits that matter most to your business, including A2, BVDV, and poll/horn analysis.

Indexes take into account multiple traits and combine them into a single value, which is useful when you want to improve more than one trait at a time. Australia’s three breeding indices are Balanced Performance Index (BPI), Health Weighted Index (HWI) and Sustainability Index (SI). Dairy cows and bulls can receive a BPI, HWI and SI if there is sufficient data available in DataGene’s genetic evaluation system.

XytoVet strongly recommend taking a tissue sample for DNA analysis. This sample is a small tissue punch from the ear of the animal. To do this, you will need an applicator and tissue sampling unit (TSU) that can be sourced from our recommended supplier. Each TSU has a unique ID that can be linked to the animal’s ear tag. This information will need to be sent via email to our team so that we can correctly match the sample to the animal during the laboratory process. We recommend contacting our team to help you through the process.

DNA (genomic) testing gives an objective picture of each animal’s genetic potential for milk production, fertility, health and longevity, instead of relying only on pedigree or visual assessment alone.

Testing calves or heifers early lets you identify the best replacements, manage lower-ranking animals differently, avoid breeding from animals carrying undesirable genes and fast-track genetic gain in your herd.

Australian data shows that using genomics improves herd performance and profitability compared with selection based purely on pedigree.

Once you have a clear understanding of your breeding goals, please contact our team. Our Genetic Sales Consultants understand that every farm and breeding operation is unique, and we want to be able to provide the best solutions and customer experience for you. Our team will walk you through the process of how to order a sampling kit, how to complete the required paperwork and how the reporting process will work. If you require any assistance at any stage through the process, please contact us.

Our dairy genomic test is designed for animals that are part of DataGene’s Australian evaluation system. This includes Holstein, Jersey, Holstein-Jersey cross and Red Breed animals whose sires have Australian Breeding Values (ABVs).

If you’re working with other breeds or composites, contact our team and we’ll confirm the best testing option for your herd.

Genomic samples can be collected very early at birth or tagging, using a TSU or hair card. Many Australian dairy farmers aim to test all heifer calves early so results are back before first joining or major selection decisions.

Early testing lets you rear better heifers, focus feed and rearing costs on the most profitable animals and make informed decisions.

Genomic testing is a powerful tool for accurate identification and parentage, correcting pedigree errors that occur in around 15% of Australian dairy calves, and making BPI, HWI and SI indexes more reliable. Genomic testing improves the reliability of breeding values by more than double, compared with those based soley on pedigree.