Meet the Dairy Breeds You May Not Know: How Now, Brown Cow?

How much do you know about dairy breeds?

"How now, brown cow?”  It’s an old-fashioned greeting that’s become a tongue-twister classic. And besides being a delightful way to confuse people in public, this old-timey phrase is actually the perfect icebreaker for today’s topic: dairy cows. 

While we often talk about the “big seven” dairy breeds in the U.S.—Holstein, Red and White Holstein, Jersey, Ayrshire, Brown Swiss, Guernsey, and Milking Shorthorn—there’s a whole herd of other breeds worth getting to know. And yes, some of them are proudly brown. 

(And, no, that does not mean that they only produce chocolate milk.) 

Dairy Breeds

There are many dairy breeds out there that play a role in producing delicious milk for your favorite dairy foods. Each breed has a strength that they bring to the industry and we will introduce you to a few of them below. If you’ve ever wondered if brown cows really make chocolate milk or you’ve spotted a cow in a pasture that doesn’t look like the typical black-and-white Holstein, this post is for you. Let’s dive hoof-first into some udderly fascinating breeds you may not know. 

Brown Swiss: The OG “Brown Cow” 

Let’s start with one of the most lovable and laid-back breeds out there—the Brown Swiss. With their big eyes, soft brown coats, and calm personalities, Brown Swiss cows are dairy royalty. Originating from the Swiss Alps, where apparently even the cows are laid-back and stylish, this breed is known for rich, creamy milk. 

Fun fact: Brown Swiss milk has an ideal balance of protein and fat, making it a favorite among artisan cheesemakers. 

Jersey: Small Size, Big Flavor 

Another brown beauty is the Jersey, a smaller-framed cow with a tan to light brown coat and a gentle, curious nature. Don’t let their size fool you, Jerseys are mighty milk producers when it comes to butterfat content, which gives milk that extra-rich taste. Small? Yes. Mighty? Also yes.  

Bonus points: Their milk is high in butterfat. You’ll often see their milk used in butter, ice cream, and full-fat dairy products. 

The Milking Shorthorn—An Honorable Mention 

While Milking Shorthorns often have red-and-white or roan coloring, they occasionally sport darker, reddish-brown coats that earn them an honorary mention here. They do their own thing. They’re known for being versatile, hardy cows that adapt well to different climates, and their milk is a versatile ingredient across dairy foods. What can’t Milking Shorthorns do? 

Honorary brown cow status: granted. 

Favorite hobby: Producing super versatile milk. 

And Then There Are the Rarer Dairy Breeds… 

We often highlight the most popular dairy breeds as the 7 dairy breeds, but they aren’t the only cows you may find in the pasture. The dairy world has a few lesser-known stars who deserve a spot in your mental moo gallery. If you happen to visit a dairy farm this summer and spot a cow that looks a little different, you might be meeting one of the lesser-known breeds in the US dairy industry. You might not see them in commercials, but if you visit a dairy farm, you might spot one of these fab four-legged finds: 

Dutch Belted 

Imagine a cow wearing a stylish white belt around its middle like it just stepped out of a bovine fashion week. How stylish! The Dutch Belted cow is basically the runway model of the pasture with its bold, white “belt” wrapped neatly around a dark coat. You’ll remember this eye-catching cow the moment you see her. When you see one, you’ll think Holstein meets haute couture. 

Favorite look: It’s not just a fashion statement that makes these cows worth mentioning. Their milk is known for high butterfat and protein content, making it great for cheese and ice cream. 

Lineback 

Linebacks look like the cool Holstein with distinctive white lines down their backs and patterns that look like abstract art meets barnyard chic. Their coat patterns can vary, but the signature white streak or “line” running down their back is often framed by darker spots that might remind you of a Holstein. Some lean toward a reddish-brown hue, earning them a spot in this brown cow roundup.  

A powerful look and product: This is a breed with a personality as striking as its look. Their signature is hardiness and milk production with a side of flair. 

Devon 

The Devon, sometimes called the Milking Devon, is a throwback in the best way--think old-school work ethic with a side of vintage charm. These red-brown cows are more likely to be found on dual-purpose or smaller farms, as they are valued for both milk and their muscle. Historically used as oxen, Devons are known for their intelligence, strength, and gentle temperament. Call them old-school, but do so with respect. They are old-fashioned in the coolest, most dependable way. “How now, brown cow?” indeed. 

Character trait: The kind of cow that shows up an hour early and says, “Back in my day, we mooed uphill both ways.” 

Does the Type of Cow Matter for the Planet? 

It’s not that certain cows are “more sustainable.” Different breeds bring different strengths to a farm’s sustainability goals. Some are pros at thriving in specific climates. Others live longer or stay healthier, which means less turnover and waste. And some just make more milk per moo (in the scientific terminology, of course).  

Dairy farms are working towards a more sustainable future. The breed a farmer chooses can influence everything from how the milk is produced to how the farm runs. It’s like assembling a dairy dream team where every cow (brown cow or otherwise) has its role. 

Say Hello to the Brown Cow Dairy Breed

Dairy farmers across the Southeast (and beyond) often choose cows based on climate, milk production needs, and personal preference, leading to some dairy breeds being more popular than others, but not the only breeds out there. That means you might just meet a breed you’ve never heard of on your next dairy tour. 

Next time you’re out on a farm tour, dairy festival, or just happen to drive past a pasture and spot a cow that doesn’t look like your classic black-and-white Holstein, say, “How now, brown cow?” and consider that you just met a new dairy legend. 

Behind every carton of milk, block of cheddar, or scoop of ice cream, there’s a cow out there living her best life in her dream job, contributing to the world of dairy in her unique way. 

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