The Digital Heartbeat of Dairy Cows
Therio Comparison Guide
Last updated: February 2026 - Therio Editorial Team
Summary
When comparing dairy genetics platforms, the key differences come down to prediction accuracy, cost per animal tested, integration with breeding decisions, and the speed of genetic progress each approach enables. Genomic testing from providers like Zoetis Clarifide and STgenetics has fundamentally changed how dairy operations select replacement animals. Therio's Dairy Directory covers 35+ genetics and reproduction products across 539+ total dairy technology guides from 160+ companies in 18 categories.
| Feature | Genomic Testing | Traditional Pedigree/Records |
|---|---|---|
| Prediction Accuracy | High (genomic reliability 70-77%) | Moderate (parent average only) |
| Age at Decision | Birth (DNA sample at days old) | 3-5 years (wait for production records) |
| Cost per Animal | $35 - $55 per genomic test | Minimal (uses existing records) |
| Genetic Progress Speed | Fast (select at birth, breed early) | Slow (long generation interval) |
| Disease Trait Screening | Yes (tests for genetic defects) | Limited (pedigree-based carrier probability) |
| Integration with AI Services | Yes (mating programs use genomic data) | Yes (traditional sire selection) |
| ROI Timeline | 2-4 years (faster genetic gain) | 5-10 years (slower progress) |
Genomic testing has become the foundation of modern dairy genetics programs because it enables selection decisions years earlier than traditional methods. The most effective genetics programs combine genomic testing of all heifer calves at birth, strategic use of sexed semen on genetically elite animals, and beef-cross semen on lower-merit cows to maximize the value of every pregnancy. The Therio Dairy Directory's Genetics, Reproduction, and Youngstock category covers the full range of genetics platforms and breeding tools.
Genomic testing analyzes a DNA sample (typically from an ear tissue punch or hair follicle) to predict an animal's genetic merit for production traits (milk, fat, protein), health traits (mastitis resistance, fertility), and type traits (udder, feet, legs). Results are expressed as genomic predicted transmitting abilities (gPTA) that indicate what the animal is expected to pass to offspring. The test also screens for known genetic defects and verifies parentage. The Therio Dairy Directory's 539+ product guides include genomic testing services from major providers.
Genomic testing for dairy cattle typically costs $35 to $55 per animal for standard panels that include production, health, and type traits. Some providers offer lower-cost panels for basic parentage and defect screening at $15 to $25 per test. Volume discounts are often available for operations testing large numbers of animals. The cost is generally recovered through better selection decisions within one lactation. Therio's Dairy Directory covers 160+ companies including genomic testing providers.
Testing all heifer calves provides the most complete data for replacement selection decisions. Operations that test every heifer can identify the top genetics at birth, use sexed semen on elite heifers, and use beef semen on lower-merit animals. For operations with tight budgets, testing at least the calves from first-calf heifers (where pedigree information is least predictive) provides the best return per test dollar. The Therio Dairy Directory's 539+ guides across 18 categories help compare testing strategies.
Sexed semen is processed to contain primarily X-chromosome-bearing sperm, resulting in approximately 90% female calves. When combined with genomic testing, operations can use sexed semen on their genetically best cows to produce elite replacement heifers, and use conventional beef semen on lower-merit cows. This strategy maximizes genetic progress while generating additional revenue from beef-cross calves.
The Therio Dairy Directory's Genetics, Reproduction, and Youngstock category includes detailed product guides for genomic testing services, AI companies, semen suppliers, embryo transfer services, and breeding management software. Each guide covers features, company information, and use case details across 539+ total dairy technology products from 160+ companies.
Browse all genetics, reproduction, and youngstock products in the Therio Dairy Directory, including genomic testing services, AI providers, and breeding management tools.
Browse Genetics and Reproduction ProductsExpert, editorially independent guides comparing dairy technology products and platforms:
Copyright 2026 Therio Inc. All rights reserved.