7 Breeds of Dairy Cows

In the United States there are 7 different breeds of dairy cows. Dairy cows are bred for only one purpose. Their milk. Fun Fact: 1 cow produces a little over 10 gallons of milk each day!. That’s roughly 3,650 gallons a year per cow! Holy Cow!

Here are the 7 listed in no specific order.

Holstein

Holsteins were brought over to the United States from the Netherlands in 1631. This breed produces the most milk out of all the breeds. They are know for their black and white markings.

Jersey

The Jersey cow comes from the Isle of Jersey in the English channel. This is the smaller of the milk cow breeds. Even though she is smaller, this breed produces a higher butterfat within her milk. This cows coat is usually lighter to dark brown in color.

Brown Swiss

You guessed it, this cow is from Switzerland. The color of this cow can range from silver to dark brown and are some of the larger milk cows. Her milk is predominantly used for making cheese at it contains a much higher protein to fat ratio.

Guernsey

Also known as the Golden Guernsey due to her rich, golden colored milk. This cow originates from the Isle of Guernsey in the English Channel. What makes the milk so rich and golden is the higher levels of beta carotene than other breeds. This cow’s coat has brown and white splotches and usually has white legs.

Ayrshire

Ayrshires where brought over to America in 1800 from the county of Ayr in Scotland. This cow is a rather large cow also when it come to the milking breeds. Her coat is rusty-red with white.

Milking Shorthorn

The Milking Shorthorn, which comes from Great Britain, is a dual purpose breed as it can be used for both milk production and beef. Her coat is red mixed with black and brown on white. Her milk is also known for it’s high protein to fat ratio.

Red and White Holstein

With very similar characteristics to the Black and White Holsteins, this breed is fairly new being introduced to the United States in 1964 from the Netherlands. She is red and white in color and is known for having a very strong immune system.