Linear programming is an optimization tool widely used in animal production. But it is not so commonly used when selecting parents for next generation, deciding the mate scheme or in the joint election (mate selection). In part this is due to computing difficulties to carry on this analysis.
In this work we review the most frequent situations in animal breeding and conservation genetics where the use of linear programming techniques should be recommended. In every case we suggest the most efficient and casiest algorithm to get the solution. A short summary of programmes and routines available to solve linear programmes is also presented.