Estimated breeding value (EBV)

Estimated Breeding Value (EBV) is a prediction of an animal’s genetic potential to pass on desirable traits, such as milk production or growth rate, to its offspring. It’s calculated using family history, performance data, and genetic information. EBV helps breeders choose animals that are most likely to produce superior future generations. A higher EBV indicates a greater genetic contribution to that trait, guiding selective breeding decisions to improve herd quality over time.