Dairy cattle breeding has undergone remarkable transformation over the past century, evolving from traditional selection based on observable phenotypes and pedigree information to the modern era of genomic selection and data-driven decision-making. This presentation provides an overview of key milestones in the genetic improvement of dairy cattle, emphasizing how the integration of molecular technologies and computational tools has revolutionized breeding strategies. The discussion begins with a historical perspective on conventional selection methods and the transition toward genomic prediction, highlighting the impact of single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) genotyping and reference populations on accelerating genetic gain. Current breeding programs are examined through the lens of widely adopted genetic-economic indices such as Total Performance Index (TPI) and Net Merit (NM$), which reflect an increasing focus on profitability, health, and sustainability. Emerging trends—including the use of sexed semen, beef-on-dairy crossbreeding, and genomic testing of young animals—are discussed as effective tools for enhancing productivity and efficiency. Looking forward, novel opportunities are anticipated in areas such as genomic mating, gene editing, multi-omics integration, feed efficiency (Feed Saved, methane emissions), sensor-based monitoring, precision phenotyping, automated data recording, animal welfare, and environmental sustainability, aligning breeding goals with global priorities for responsible and sustainable food production. Future directions emphasize the integration of artificial intelligence, big data analytics, and precision agriculture, enabling a more holistic, resilient, and technology-driven dairy industry. Overall, this presentation highlights the convergence of science, technology, and sustainability in shaping the next generation of dairy cattle breeding.
