There are many different breeds of dairy cows. A breed is a group of animals with a similar appearance and behavior. The two most recognized and well-known breeds of dairy cattle are the Holstein cow and the Jersey cow. Learn more about each type of dairy cow below!

Let’s explore the seven most prominent American dairy cow breeds currently found in the United States: Holstein, Jersey, Brown Swiss, Guernsey, Ayrshire, Red and White Holstein, and Milking Shorthorn. Plus, we’ll throw in some fun facts along the way!

Dairy cattle are those primarily raised for their milk as part of dairy farming.

Commercial dairy cows are divided into five major breeds: Ayrshire, Brown Swiss, Guernsey, Holstein–Friesian, and Jersey. There are many minor breeds, among them the Red Dane, the Dutch Belted, and the Devon. There are also dual-purpose breeds used to produce milk and meat, notably the Milking Shorthorn and the Red Polled.

Dairy cows are bred for their ability to produce milk from which dairy foods are made. While there are many types of cows, in the U.S., there are seven different dairy cow breeds: Ayrshire; Brown Swiss; Guernsey; Holstein; Jersey; Milking Shorthorn; Red & White; Learn more about each breed of dairy cow below!

Jan 4, 2022 · In the United States, there are seven main dairy cattle breeds that make up most of the nation’s nearly 9.4 million-cow national dairy herd. The Holstein (or Holstein-Friesian) is the most popular dairy breed, comprising around 90 percent of cows on U.S. dairy farms. They are known for their distinctive black and white pattern.

Mar 11, 2024 · If you’re looking for just the right dairy cow for your homestead, you’re in luck, cause I’m bringing you 9 of the very best dairy cow breeds in this article. High production; sweet personalities; very rich milk. Big; need lots of room to graze; still need lots of supplemental food during production.

Sep 23, 2022 · Popular dairy cows in the United States include Holstein, Jersey, Brown Swiss and Guernsey. The country produces more milk annually than any other country in the world, with an estimated 9.38 million dairy cows as of 2022.

Feb 7, 2025 · Dairy cows feed the world with the best cheese, butter and milk. Just like us, cows are unique and have their own personalities. In our region, six breeds are most common. Holstein – The Classics. When you think of a dairy cow, you probably picture the Holstein.

In the U.S., there are seven major breeds of dairy cows — Ayrshire, Brown Swiss, Guernsey, Holstein, Jersey, Milking Shorthorn and Red and White Holstein. Keep reading, download this handout or watch this fun video to learn more about each type of cow!