Setting breeding objectives

A breeding objective defines the ‘ideal’ animal that you want to breed. The process of setting breeding objectives allows you to evaluate where you herd is currently and consider where you would like the herd to go in the future.

Breeding objectives should be SMART (specific, measurable, achievable, relevant and time-bound).

When developing your breeding objective(s), you should consider:

• What is your operating environment?
• What is your target market?
• What is the current performance of your herd?
• What are the profit drivers that will help you to develop and achieve your breeding objectives, including cost(s) of production?

Considering each of these will help you to set breeding objectives that are specific for your herd.