Major Breeds of Dairy Cattle California Polytechnic State University San Luis Obispo Clemente Ayon AGED 410

Major Dairy Breeds in U.S. Holstein Brown Swiss Ayrshires Jerseys Guernsey Milking Shorthorn

Dairy Cattle Facts -Most were imported from Europe -Most do better in temperate climates: Milk production goes down in extreme hot weather -Most have horns: Physically removed (de-horned) when calves Few polled (born with no horns) bulls available

Holstein -Largest of all U.S. Dairy Breeds -Account for 93% of all dairy breeds in the U.S. -Black and White -Originated in the Netherlands

Holstein Production Records: -Highest Production (Total Yield: Milk and Fat) 17,000+ pounds/year -Lowest Fat Content 3.5 %

Jerseys -Smallest breed -Inquisitive nature -Fawn-colored coat, large impressive eyes -Mature early -Excellent dairy type -Originated from channel Islands off Great Britain

Jerseys Production Records: -Highest % Butterfat 5% -Highest % Protein -Milk Production 10,000 pounds/year

Guernsey -Fawn and white (“orange”) markings; light pigment around eyes -Origin: Channel Island off Britain -Extremely calm, placid disposition- “Family cow”

Guernsey Production Records: -Milk Production: 14,500 pounds/year -Fat Content: 4.5 % -Famous for “Golden Guernsey” milk. Carotene not converted into vitamin A

Brown Swiss -Originally from Switzerland, imported to US in 1869 -Oldest breed -Coloring similar to Jersey but larger framed -Extremely popular export to foreign countries (semen and cows) “The Gentle Giant”

Brown Swiss Production Records: -Milk Production: 13,000 pounds/year -Fat Content: 4 %

Ayrshires -Intermediate size -Red and white coat, not to be confused with red/white Holstein -Excellent grazers, Hardy -Known for attractive udders and fancy appearance -Most temperamental of dairy breeds -Originated from Scotland (County Of Ayr)

Ayrshires Production Records: -Milk Production: 12,000 pounds/year -Fat Content: 3.9 %

Milking Shorthorn -Originated in England -Colors can be red, roan or white -Good mothers -Used to shorten the Longhorns

Milking Shorthorn Production Records: -Milk Production: 15,000 pounds/year -Dual purpose breed Milk and Meat -Fat Content: 3.7 %

Bye! See you at the milking parlor! THE END Bye! See you at the milking parlor!