Dairy Cattle breed profile
Brown Swiss
- Dairy breed
- Switzerland
- extra large
- Temperament: calm
Brown Swiss is the longevity-and-feet-and-legs dairy breed — well-suited to grazing systems and known for stand-up management on commercial dairies. Larger frame and slower maturity than Holstein.
Handler safety note
Among the most docile dairy breeds. Bulls remain dangerous; AI standard.
Production & size
Mature size and output.
Female weight
1300–1500 lbs
Male weight
2000–2400 lbs
Milk/year
19,000 lbs
Butterfat
4%
Reproductive traits
Gestation
290 days
Seasonality
year round
Maternal
good
Health & climate
Parasite resistance
good
Heat tolerance
fair
Cold hardiness
excellent
Humidity tolerance
good
Common health concerns
- Spider syndrome (genetic) — testing required for breeding
- Slow maturity vs. Holstein
Management requirements
Experience
some experience
Housing
moderate
Fencing
standard
Feed system
pasture, hay, total mixed ration
Dehorning
Typical
Market access
Commercial market
good
Direct-market appeal
good
Primary purposes