29/09/2023
6 Breeds of Dairy Cows
Holstein
• This breed originated in Europe and was brought to the U.S. by Dutch
settlers.
• This breed has the highest milk production of all dairy breeds.
• The Holstein is the dominant dairy breed in the U.S.
• The average Holstein cow produces around
23,000 pounds of milk, or 2,674 gallons, of milk
each lactation. With a standard lactation lasting
305 days, that comes out to 75 pounds, or almost
9 gallons of milk per cow per day.
Ayrshire
• This breed originated in Scotland.
• Aryshires are known for vigor and efficiency of milk production.
• Average output is 17,000lbs./7,711kg (~2000 gallons) of milk per 305
day-cycle/year, with 3.9% butterfat, 3.3% total
protein.
Brown Swiss
• This breed originated in the Alp Mountains.
• Brown Swiss cows are known for being hearty
and rugged, having superior feet and legs.
• This breed is very quiet and docile.
• Average output is 21,000lbs./9525kg (~2450
gallons) of milk per cycle with 4.0% butterfat,
3.5% total protein.
Guernsey
• This breed originated in the English Channel, 30 miles off the coast of
France.
• Guernsey cows are known to be hearty and
adaptable and for the yellow color of their milk.
• Guernseys are small, about three-fifths the size of a
Holstein, but produce up to 14,700lbs./6,350kg
(~1700 gallons) milk with 4.5% butterfat, 3.5% total
protein each cycle.
Jersey
• This breed originated from the island of Jersey, 15 miles off the coast of
France.
• Jerseys produce more butterfat in their milk than other dairy breeds.
• average, 16,000lbs./7,260kg (~1860 gallons) per
cycle, with a high butterfat content of 4.9%, total
protein 3.7%.
Milking Shorthorns
• This breed originated in England.
• The Milking Shorthorn has a wide range of
adaption and the reputation of being a good
milker.
• A typical cow produces 15,400lbs./6,990kg
(~1880 gallons) of milk per cycle with a butterfat
content of 3.8%, total protein 3.3%.