A newly published study from Zoetis and Dairy Management Inc. (DMI) provides compelling evidence that genetic selection using the Dairy Wellness Profit Index® (DWP$®) can deliver measurable productivity gains for U.S. dairy producers. The peer-reviewed research, published in the Journal of Dairy Science, demonstrates that selecting for higher DWP$ not only can improve herd health and longevity but can also significantly reduce methane intensity.
The study analyzed 11 commercial dairy herds across diverse U.S. regions, comparing the top and bottom quartiles based on DWP$ rankings. The results showed that cows in the top quartile produced:
- 12.9% lower methane intensity1
- 9.5% lower manure nitrogen intensity1
- 7.3% lower phosphorus intensity1
- 8.0% lower degradable volatile solids intensity1
- 18.1% lower herd turnover, reducing emissions from replacement heifers1
These findings underscore the role of genetic selection as a strategy for improving efficiency in dairy production.
“This study reinforces a core belief at Zoetis: that a healthy animal is a productive animal, and a productive animal is a profitable and sustainable animal,” said Brett Bristol, Head of Precision Animal Health at Zoetis. “By selecting for DWP$, producers can make genetic progress that improves herd performance and reduces environmental impact without compromising profitability. This is science delivering real-world impact.”
Evaluating Productivity Impacts in Animal Health
To estimate the productivity benefits of genetic progress in dairy herds, the study analyzed milk production and herd turnover metrics along with environmental factors, including methane, nitrogen and phosphorous intensity, from 11 U.S. commercial dairy herds in different regions of the country. Each herd was divided into the top and bottom quartiles based on the 2022 formulation of DWP$ lifetime profitability predictions. The study used a comprehensive, whole-farm simulation model, called the ruminant farm systems model, or RuFaS model, which uses real-time data to evaluate productivity and environmental impacts of dairy farm management decisions.
“Dairy producers are expert managers of their operations,” said Tim Kurt, Senior Vice President, Environmental Research Strategy & Group Lead, DMI. “This collaboration delivers valuable, research-based insights that demonstrate how genetic selection and genomic tools can support both environmental and economic goals, ultimately helping producers make informed decisions that benefit their herds and their businesses.”
DWP$: A Strategic Tool for the Future of Dairy
Available exclusively through CLARIFIDE® Plus, DWP$ is a multi-trait selection index that incorporates wellness, fertility, production and longevity traits to estimate the lifetime profitability of Holstein and Jersey cattle. By incorporating DWP$ into breeding and culling strategies, producers can build herds that are more resilient, efficient and aligned with economic and environmental goals.
“This is about equipping dairy producers with the tools to lead,” Bristol said. “Genetic selection with DWP$ is not just about better cows. It is about building a more sustainable, more profitable future for dairy.”
Visit ClarifidePlus.com to learn more about how genetic solutions from Zoetis can help build a healthy, productive and sustainable herd.
About Zoetis
As the world’s leading animal health company, Zoetis is driven by a singular purpose: to nurture our world and humankind by advancing care for animals. After innovating ways to predict, prevent, detect, and treat animal illness for more than 70 years, Zoetis continues to stand by those raising and caring for animals worldwide – from veterinarians and pet owners to livestock producers. The company’s leading portfolio and pipeline of medicines, vaccines, diagnostics and technologies make a difference in over 100 countries. A Fortune 500 company, Zoetis generated revenue of $9.3 billion in 2024 with approximately 13,800 employees. For more information, visit www.zoetis.com.
