A practical guide to genetics, health recording and breeding tools for 2026
As dairy farmers look ahead to the 2026 breeding season, the decisions made over the coming months will shape herd performance for the future years. With pressures on stock numbers, growing emphasis on animal health and tighter security around calf quality, the right breeding strategy is more important than ever.
Below is a guide to the key priorities that dairy farmers should consider for 2026 from an ICBF perspective.
1. Log into your HerdPlus Account
Your first step should be to log into your HerdPlus account to utilise the valuable tools available to you. HerdPlus gives you instant access to critical herd information, including EBI, fertility, health, and performance data—everything you need to make informed breeding decisions. To log in to either the desktop or mobile version of HerdPlus, your username will be your herd number. Enter in your password which will be a minimum of 6 characters. If you can not remember your password, text the word PASS to 089 457 7663 or call us on 023 882 0452.
If you are not currently a member, HerdPlus costs €100 per year plus €0.50 per cow calved in the previous year.
2. Download The ICBF HerdPlus App
For easy access to herd data on the go, download the ICBF HerdPlus App from the App Store (IOS) or Google Play (Android). The app allows you to:
- View profiles, including EBI, Co-op, fertility and expected calving dates
- Record scanning, dry-off, and health events
- Track calf DNA samples and progress under the National Genotyping Programme (NGP)
Having real-time access to accurate data makes day-to-day herd management far more efficient. To download the latest version of the ICBF HerdPlus App, click on the button below.
3. Check your Herd EBI Scorecard
Before making breeding decisions for 2026, review your Herd EBI Scorecard to understand the genetic strengths and weaknesses within your herd. This overview helps identify where improvements can be made—whether that’s fertility, milk solids, maintenance, or health traits.
To access your herd EBI scorecard, go to View Profiles > Dairy > EBI.
4. Make the most of the Dairy Beef Index for Non-Replacement Cows
For cows not being bred for replacements, the Dairy Beef Index (DBI) should be used when selecting beef AI or stock bulls. DBI helps maximise the value of dairy-beef calves by focusing on:
- Beef performance and carcass traits
- Calving ease and gestation length
Always examine both the Beef and Calving sub-indexes to ensure the bull performs well across both areas. For more information on the Dairy Beef Index, click here.
5. Factor TB Breeding Values into your Bull Choice
Genetic resistance to TB is an increasingly important consideration. Selecting bulls (and cows) with lower TB PTA values can help reduce your herd’s overall susceptibility to the disease.
To improve TB resistance at herd level, aim to use bulls with a TB PTA of less than 8% wherever possible.
6. Record Health and Temperament Data
Accurate recording of mastitis, lameness, and temperament scores is essential. High-quality data improves herd health evaluations, strengthens breeding decisions, and increases the accuracy of ICBF tools such as Cow’s Own Worth (C.O.W.)
To record, go to Record Events > Health and Temperament on either the desktop or the HerdPlus App
7. Use ICBF Sire Advice for a Smart Mating Plan
Running Sire Advice before the breeding season ensures each cow is bred with clear objectives in mind.
ICBF Sire Advice is a powerful tool that helps:
- Avoid inbreeding
- Match cows with the most suitable bulls
- Drive genetic progress in fertility, milk solids, health, and overall performance
To run sire advice, go to Applications > Sire Advice on your desktop only.
8. Track Performance with Weekly and End of Season Fertility Reports
Weekly fertility reports allow you to track submission and conception rates throughout the breeding season. End-of-season fertility reports are invaluable for reviewing outcomes, assessing bull performance, and identifying areas for improvement in future years.
This data can be tracked by going to Reports > Fertility on either desktop or the HerdPlus App.
9. Record Pregnancy Scanning Data
Accurate recording of all scanning results provides:
- A clear picture of in-calf status
- Individual expected calving dates
- More reliable fertility reports
- An accurate expected calving list for the Dairy Pocket Notebook
Complete and timely scanning data is essential for effective forward planning.
This data can be recorded by going to Record Events > Pregnancy Diagnosis on either desktop or the HerdPlus App.
By making full use of ICBF tools and recording accurate, up-to-date data, dairy farmers can confidently plan breeding decisions that deliver healthier cows, better fertility, and higher-value calves. The groundwork laid now will pay dividends well beyond the 2026 breeding season.