From Evaluating Pigs to Building a Breeding Program
Genetics turns individual selection decisions into long-term herd direction. A sound breeding program combines structure, fertility, temperament, pedigree knowledge, genetic diversity, measurable performance, and honest records rather than chasing a single color, bloodline, test result, or fashionable animal.
Start With Breeding-Stock Selection
- How to Select Kunekune Breeding Stock
- How to Choose a Kunekune Breeding Boar
- How to Choose a Kunekune Gilt or Sow
- How to Plan a Kunekune Breeding Pair
Use these pages with The Master Guide to Kunekune Structure, our functional standard, and the teat-count guide.
Pedigrees, COI, and Genetic Diversity
- Kunekune COI, Inbreeding, and Genetic Diversity
- Linebreeding vs. Outcrossing Kunekunes
- How to Read a Kunekune Pedigree
- Kunekune DNA Parentage Testing
Pedigrees help identify relationships and possible risk; they do not prove health, quality, temperament, fertility, or performance. A famous name is information—not a breeding plan.
Testing, Performance, and Real-World Results
Kunekune Genetic Testing for Carcass Merit and Tenderness explains how Dos Lobos uses available genetic information without confusing genotype with guaranteed phenotype.
We combine testing with growth, structure, body condition, reproductive history, mature relatives, litter data, and actual pork results. Every retained pig should have a reason to be in the program and every litter should teach us something measurable.
The Dos Lobos Breeding Framework
- Define the purpose and market for the litter.
- Evaluate each parent as a complete animal.
- Review pedigree relationships, COI, registration, and DNA records.
- Pair complementary strengths without doubling serious weaknesses.
- Record breeding, farrowing, growth, structure, temperament, and outcomes.
- Retain selectively and disclose meaningful limitations honestly.
- Reassess the program using mature offspring and carcass results.
Explore our Kunekune breeding program or meet the herd behind the records.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a Kunekune breeding program responsible?
Clear goals, sound animals, accurate pedigrees, genetic diversity, honest records, appropriate testing, measured outcomes, and lifetime responsibility for breeding decisions.
Does registration prove a Kunekune is breeding quality?
No. Registration verifies identity and pedigree requirements; breeding quality still requires evaluation of structure, health, temperament, fertility, and program goals.
Is a low COI enough to make a good pairing?
No. COI describes pedigree relationship, not whether the parents are functionally sound or complementary.
Can genetic testing guarantee superior offspring?
No. Tests provide information about specific markers. Environment, many untested genes, selection, management, and chance still influence the offspring.