Holstein: The Holsteins are the most recognizable cow breed, with the trademark color of black and white. There are also Holsteins that are red and white. The Holstein is a desirable cow breed for producers, as the breed produces both milk and meat. Their milk production rate is observed to be constantly improving, too.
Jersey: The Jersey’s color is light brown, though there are those with colors that range from grey to a dull black. White patches are also present, with some Jerseys almost covered by them. Perhaps the main distinctive feature of the Jersey is its black nose border by an almost white muzzle. Another defining trait is its hard black feet, which contributes to strong legs that makes the breed a sturdy and strong one.
Dairy Shorthorn: The Dairy Shorthorns can be red, red and white, white, or roan. The roan-colored Shorthorn has a specific shade of roan that cannot be seen in the other cow breeds. Despite their name, the Dairy Shorthorn can be horned or polled. The Shorthorns’ milk is best for making cheese because of its most favorable fat-to-protein ratio.
The Dairy Shorthorns are gentle and quiet in nature, and they can fit well with the other breeds. The Shorthorns also have the ability to recover quickly and have few physical problems. They especially have strong feet and legs. The female Shorthorns make excellent mothers, and have been used as “foundation” females in the introduction of European breeds to Australia.
It is debatable which cow breed is the best. Perhaps, it will never be known which is the best among them because of each has individuality and benefits for the producer and consumer markets. Nevertheless, these remain to be the top cow breeds in North America.
