The August proofs are out. Don’t just chase the #1 bull. Discover the winning strategies that will actually drive your profitability.
Executive Summary: The August 2025 sire proofs reveal a key strategic crossroads for dairy producers, contrasting the high-potential genomics of the new #1 GTPI® sire, BEYOND HI-LEVEL-ET, with the data-backed reliability of proven powerhouses like SDG CAP GARZA-ET. This analysis delves deeper than the headline rankings, questioning the industry’s focus on TPI points versus true on-farm profitability. It highlights the dominance of Genosource in the Net Merit category, led by GENOSOURCE RETROSPECT-ET, as a case study in breeding for economic success. Ultimately, the article argues that the “real winners” are sires that deliver balanced traits, such as health and longevity, urging producers to build resilient, profitable herds rather than simply chasing the highest-ranking genomic bull.
The August 2025 sire proofs are out, and they paint a clear picture of the two paths available to dairy producers: the high-risk, high-reward world of elite genomics, and the reliable, data-backed foundation of proven sires. Understanding the leaders in each category—and the larger trends they represent—is crucial for building a profitable breeding strategy in today’s demanding market.
Genomic Leaders: A Glimpse into the Future
The top of the young sire list is where we see the absolute cutting edge of genetic potential.
- The New #1: BEYOND HI-LEVEL-ET has claimed the top spot at +3539 TPI (Over 1 year of age). His well-rounded profile features a +1048 NM$, solid production, and a strong +7.0 Health Index, making him a complete package on paper.
- The Contenders: Right behind him, OCD RADICAL JOSH ALLEN-ET (+3534 TPI) offers a higher Net Merit at +1097 NM$ and massive milk (+1765 lbs). However, for many producers focused on trouble-free cows, PROGENESIS WATCHMAN is a standout. His elite 8.6 Health Index offers a powerful defense against costly vet bills and labor challenges.
Proven Sires: The Gold Standard of Reliability
While the genomic list offers potential, the proven sire list delivers confidence backed by thousands of real-world milking daughters.
- The Proven Powerhouse: SDG CAP GARZA-ET leads this list at +3488 TPI with an exceptional 98% reliability. His combination of high-volume components (+146 lbs fat, +53 lbs protein) and solid longevity (+3.7 PL) makes him a go-to sire for predictable results.
- The Veterans: OCD TROOPER SHEEPSTER-ET (+3458 TPI) and GENOSOURCE CAPTAIN-ET (+3429 TPI) are titans of the industry. Sheepster built his reputation on massive production validated across diverse environments, while Captain is a cornerstone sire known for building lasting, profitable cow families with his 99% reliability.
The Genosource Phenomenon: Cracking the Profitability Code
Across the rankings, one trend is undeniable: Genosource’s dominance in delivering profitable genetics.
- Net Merit Leaders: GENOSOURCE RETROSPECT-ET is crushing the competition at +1317 NM, driven by elite fat production (+144lbs) and longevity (+6.0PL, +7.2 Health Index). He is followed by a stable of herd mates like GENOSOURCE ENDURANCE-ET (+1233NM) and GENOSOURCE PURDY-ET (+1222 NM$).
- The Strategy: This isn’t just about genetic concentration. Genosource has clearly developed a winning formula for identifying sires that excel in traits directly driving profit. Their laser focus on the Net Merit formula is a strategy the entire industry can learn from.
The Color Advantage: Grounded Genetics in a Volatile Market
For breeders looking for solid performance without the volatility of chasing the #1 genomic bull, the Red & White and Red Carrier lists offer compelling opportunities.
- Red & White (R&W): While SIEMERS RLE PAPAYA-RED-ET leads at +3245 TPI, the bull to watch for commercial durability is APRILDAY ORPHS AESOP-RED-ET (+3195 TPI). His +5.3 PL and 8.2 Health Index are exactly what’s needed to lower involuntary culling when replacement heifers are at a premium.
- Red Carrier (RC): S-S-I SIEMERS FALCIFORM-ET (+3305 TPI) and OCD DOMINANCE SUNDAY-ET (+3304 TPI) both offer elite production packages, though Sunday’s 3.02 SCS warrants careful mating to maintain udder health.
Type Specialists: Precision Tools for Conformation
The top of the PTAT list is reserved for specialists. These bulls fill a specific niche in breeding programs—think of them as surgical tools, not everyday workhorses.
- The Extreme Tier: SHG LEGO (+3.89 PTAT) and REDCARPET STORY ARC-ET (+3.88 PTAT) remain the clear leaders for extreme type.
- The Balanced Option: SIEMERS HULU PALDWYN-ET deserves special attention. At +3.18 PTAT combined with a strong +3069 TPI, he represents one of the best options for improving conformation without sacrificing significant overall genetic merit.
The Bottom Line: Breeding for Profit, Not Just Points
When making breeding decisions, consider these key takeaways from the August proofs:
- Study the Winners: Genosource’s Net Merit dominance isn’t an accident. Analyze their approach to selecting for the traits that drive economic success.
- Prioritize Health: With soaring costs, the high Health Index scores on bulls like Watchman and Aesop are becoming non-negotiable for building a resilient and profitable herd.
- Use Type Strategically: Leverage extreme PTAT sires as corrective tools for your worst-conformed animals, but build your herd’s foundation on profitable production and health genetics.
The smart money isn’t just chasing the latest #1 genomic bull. It’s about learning from proven programs and building a balanced herd that can thrive, no matter what the market throws at you.
- USA – GTPI – >12 months & NAAB-code – 08/25
- USA – Net Merit – >12 months & NAAB-code – 08/25
- USA – GTPI – Dtr Proven – 08/25
- USA – PTAT Bulls = >12 Months – 08/25
- USA – Top *RC GTPI >12 months & NAAB-code 08/25
- USA – Top R&W GTPI >12 months & NAAB-code 08/25
- USA – Top R&W & *RC PTAT Bulls >12 Mths – 08/25
