Breeding Decisions in Dairy-Beef Cross Production: Insights into Farm Decision-Making Units and Breeding Objectives in the UK.

This paper investigates breeding decisions within the rapidly expanding Dairy-Beef Cross (DBX) sector in the UK, using walking interviews with key stakeholders to uncover the motivations, breeding objectives, and the composition of Farm Decision-Making Units (FD-MUs) that drive DBX production. Findings reveal diverse FD-MU structures with varied members, priorities, and breeding strategies shaped by economic, ethical, and emotional motivations. Notably, tensions arise between dairy and beef sectors over breeding goals and farmer autonomy, influencing sire selection and decision-making processes. Despite DBX's growing prevalence, limited research has explored who drives these breeding decisions and how. This study addresses that gap by mapping FD-MU dynamics, underscoring the need for targeted genetic tools, clearer breeding guidelines, and strengthened cross-sector collaboration to foster coherent, effective DBX breeding strategies. These insights provide valuable guidance for policymakers and industry stakeholders aiming to align breeding practices with sector-wide sustainability and welfare goals.