534 Principles of Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources Breeds of Dairy Cattle Courtesy of Hoard’s Dairyman Ayrshire. Ayrshire cattle originated in the county of Ayr in Scotland prior to the 1800s. They were first imported into the United States in 1822. Ayrshires are red and white in color and are known for their udder quality, efficiency, and longevity. Ayrshire are moderate in size with mature cows weighing around 1,200 lb. They produce high-quality milk, which is popular in manufactured products. Courtesy of Hoard’s Dairyman Brown Swiss. Probably the oldest of all dairy breeds, the Brown Swiss originated in Switzerland. They were developed in the Swiss Alps and are known for their ability to adapt to different environments. Brown Swiss were imported into the United States in 1869. The Brown Swiss illustrated here is predominantly brown in color with a black nose encircled by a white ring. Brown Swiss are large- framed cattle. Mature cows will weigh around 1,400–1,500 lb. They are known for their docile temperament. The high protein content of their milk makes it highly desirable in the cheese industry. Courtesy of Hoard’s Dairyman Guernsey. Guernsey cattle can be traced back to the Isle of Guernsey off the coast of France. The Guernsey breed was developed by French monks from crossbreeding and can be traced back over 1,000 years. They were first imported in the United States in 1831. Guernseys are fawn colored with white markings. Mature cows are smaller to moderate in size, weighing about 1,100–1,200 lb. They produce milk that is high in fat content and golden in color. Guernsey cattle mature early, adapt well, and are very docile. Courtesy of Hoard’s Dairyman Holstein. Holstein is the most popular breed of dairy cattle in the United States and is the world’s largest dairy breed. They make up more than 90% of the dairy cattle in this country. Holstein cattle originated in the Netherlands over 2,000 years ago. One of the provinces they were developed in is called Friesland. In other countries of the world, Holsteins are called Friesians. They are large-framed cattle with mature cows weighing more than 1,400 lb. Holsteins are known for their excellent milk production. The average Holstein cow produces more than 23,000 lb of milk a year. Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc.