Abstract: [Objective] The core herd constitutes the foundational genetic resource of dairy cattle breeding systems,and its reproductive management directly influences both genetic improvement progress and farm profitability. In current production practices,several cognitive and operational misconceptions persist in managing core herds,constraining the full expression of their genetic potential. This paper systematically analyzed the biological and genetic mechanisms underlying these misconceptions and proposes targeted strategies for improvement.[Methods] By reviewing literature on dairy cattle reproduction and management published between 2011 and 2026 from databases such as PubMed and CNKI,and integrating field observations from commercial farms,this study identified and examined five prevalent misconceptions in core herd reproductive management.[Results] The five key misconceptions include: overreliance on milk yield as the primary selection criterion;inadequate integration of genomic selection with phenotypic data;nutritional management lagging behind reproductive regulation requirements;insufficient attention to the linkage between uterine health and embryo transfer protocols;and a lack of long-term continuity in data recording. Corresponding corrective measures are proposed: constructing comprehensive selection indices;establishing dual screening workflows combining genomic and phenotypic information;implementing stage-specific precision nutrition programs;developing quantitative screening systems for recipient cows;and advancing electronic data management.[Conclusion] Effective core herd management requires shifting from experience-driven to data-driven decision-making,and from single-trait selection to multi-trait optimization,thereby achieving synchronized improvements in genetic potential and economic returns.

Key words: core dairy herd, breeding management, genomic selection, reproductive efficiency, nutritional regulation