The breeding program is mainly based on the progeny testing of breeding bulls. However, because of the small size of the population and the risks of inbreeding, a heavy use of the progeny proven bulls is unfortunately not feasible. The genetic base of the breed must be maintained as wide as possible. Thus the selection schemes of the big and important cattle populations are not directly applicable in the Hérens breed.
For that reason about 50% of the Hérens females are covered naturally and the other half are bred by artificial insemination. The AI bulls are first used during one year in natural service. Every year 5-6 bulls are sent to AI. On behalf of their daughters, they are proven for milk performance and type traits.
