Objectives for the day….
1. Identify 6 Breeds of Dairy Cattle.
2. Explain characteristics of each breed of dairy cattle.
3. Develop a poster that represents characteristics of one dairy breed.
Holstein• Originated in Europe
• The major historical development of this breed occurred in what is now the Netherlands
• Color: Holsteins are large, stylish animals with color patterns of black and white or red and white
• Large frame
• Known for outstanding milk production
Jersey
• Originated from the Isle of Jersey (small British isle)
• Color: Color varies (light gray to a dark fawn being darker around the head and hips)
• Known for high milk fat.
• Wide-range of body weight; typically smaller-framed
• Produces more pounds of milk per body weight than any other dairy breed.
Aryshire• Originated in Scotland
• Originally known as the Dunlop
• Color: red and white
• Good feet and legs,
• Excels in udder conformation
• Medium-sized frame
• Average milk production
• Purebred Ayrshires only produce red offspring
Milking Shorthorn
• Originated in England
• Color: red, white, red and white, roan
• Most versatile of all breeds: good producers, good temperament, good calves, good frame
• Dual purpose breed
• Split from the American Shorthorn Assoc. in 1949
Guernsey• Originated from the Isle of
Guernsey
• Color: Red (Fawn) and White in color
• Known for high quality (high fat and protein content) milk while consuming less feed
• Intermediate frame (Medium sized)
• High milk production to feed intake ratio
• Milk is high in Beta-carotene
Brown Swiss
• Originated in Switzerland
• Color: gray or light brown to dark brown. Light colored band around the muzzle.
• Because of foot and mouth disease, only 3 have been imported since 1906
• Large sized • Good temperament • Strong feet and legs
• One of the oldest Dairy breeds