Farm Life
Indiana is home to almost 700 dairy farms of all shapes and sizes that together provide a home for over 189,000 dairy cows. The average farm has 200 cows and over 97 percent of dairy farms in Indiana are family owned.
Satisfy your cow curiosity with some fun facts about dairy cows.
Meet the Moo Crew
Holstein
The Holstein cow originally was called Holstein Friesian, but the name was shortened to Holstein. This breed is the top milk-producing breed in the world.
FUN FACTS
Average Size: 1,500 lbs
Color: Predominantly black-and-white
Average Milk Production: 9 gallons per cow per day
Origin: Netherlands
Red and White Holstein
The Red and White Holstein is a color variation of the traditional Holstein breed, sharing the same high milk production and large frame. Their distinct red-and-white coat comes from a recessive gene.
FUN FACTS
Average Size: 1,400 lbs
Color: Red and white
Average Milk Production: 8–10 gallons per cow per day
Origin: Netherlands
Jersey
Jerseys are prized for their high butterfat milk, making their milk ideal for cheese, butter and cream production.
FUN FACTS
Average Size: 1,000 lbs
Color: Tan with a black nose bordered by a white muzzle
Average Milk Production: 4–6 gallons per cow per day
Origin: The Isle of Jersey in the English Channel
Brown Swiss
The Brown Swiss, one of the oldest dairy breeds, are excellent milk producers, second only to Holsteins in volume, and their milk is prized for its high protein-to-fat ratio, making it ideal for cheese production.
FUN FACTS
Average Size: 1,350 lbs
Color: Light brown to grayish-brown, with a white muzzle
Average Milk Production: 6–8 gallons per cow per day
Origin: The Alps of Switzerland
Guernsey
The Guernsey is known for its rich golden-colored milk, which has a high beta-carotene content. These cows are valued for their efficient milk production with lower feed requirements.
FUN FACTS
Average Size: 1,400 lbs
Color: Reddish-brown with white markings
Average Milk Production: 6–8 gallons per cow a day
Origin: The Isle of Guernsey in the English Channel
Ayrshire
The Ayrshire is known as the “aristocrat” of dairy breeds because of their size and vigor. They are also known for their efficient milk production, adaptability and strong udder structure.
FUN FACTS
Average Size: 1,200 lbs
Color: White and red, varying from light to dark shades
Average Milk Production: 5–7 gallons per cow per day
Origin: Scotland
Milking Shorthorn
The Milking Shorthorn is known for its efficient milk production, longevity and adaptability. This breed was one of the first types of cows brought over to the United States.
FUN FACTS
Average Size: 1,100–1,400 lbs
Color: Red, white, or roan (a mix of red and white hairs)
Average Milk Production: 5–7 gallons per cow per day
Origin: Northeastern England
LEARN MORE
Many Indiana dairy farms are multi-generational, with family all working together to make sure the cows are happy and comfortable.
If you have questions about dairy farming, we have answers. We address everything from environmental care to milk quality and safety.
Dairy cow care is one of the most important parts of production, and farmers are constantly discovering new ways to help their cows stay healthy and comfortable.
Did you know dairy farmers work with nutritionists and veterinarians to make sure their cows are getting a balanced diet and are healthy?
Farm families are committed to responsible production, which means a fresher product at your table and even more delicious dairy for generations to come.
DAiry Farming
Many Indiana dairy farms are multi-generational, with family all working together to make sure the cows are happy and comfortable.
Farm facts
If you have questions about dairy farming, we have answers. We address everything from environmental care to milk quality and safety.
Meet the Herd
Dairy cow care is one of the most important parts of production, and farmers are constantly discovering new ways to help their cows stay healthy and comfortable.
On The Farm
Did you know dairy farmers work with nutritionists and veterinarians to make sure their cows are getting a balanced diet and are healthy?
sustainability
Farm families are committed to responsible production, which means a fresher product at your table and even more delicious dairy for generations to come.
Farm Favorite Recipes
Visit OUr Farms
Visit two Indiana Dairy Farms through a virtual 360 farm tour
JOIN US FOR A FREE VIRTUAL FARM TOUR
Our LIVE virtual farm tours connect you directly to a real Indiana dairy farm for a live video tour and chat with a farmer, from the comfort of your own classroom.
