Farm Animals

Cattle Dehorning Genetics and Polled Selection

Advances in genetic selection for polled cattle to eliminate the need for painful dehorning procedures.

Key Facts

The polled gene is dominant in cattle but was diluted by selection for other traits
Genomic selection enables identification of genetically polled sires
Introgression of polled genetics into dairy breeds is progressing globally
Eliminating dehorning removes a major source of pain and welfare cost
Denmark and Norway have made significant progress in polled Holstein breeding

Welfare Considerations

Genetic selection for polled cattle offers a permanent, welfare-positive solution to the routine pain of dehorning, representing a major long-term welfare opportunity.

What You Can Do

Support breeding programmes selecting for polled cattle genetics
Advocate for polled genetics prioritisation in national cattle breeding schemes
Encourage farmers to select polled sires where available