Brown Swiss cattle is a breed of dairy cattle which is raised mainly for milk production purpose. It is a very common and popular breed, and found in many countries around the world. And it is popular mainly for it’s milk production.
The modern Brown Swiss cattle is actually an American breed of dairy cattle, and it is also known as American Brown Swiss. It derives from the traditional triple-purpose Braunvieh of the Alpine region of Switzerland (but has diverged substantially from it).
The Brown Swiss was selectively bred for dairy qualities only, and it’s draft and beef capabilities were lost. Milk yield was measured at 10231 kg per year in 2013. And milk of the cows contain about 4% butterfat and around 3.5% protein. And the milk is very suitable for making cheese.
In the 20th Century, the Brown Swiss cattle became a world breed. Total global population estimated at 7 million head in 1990. The breed has been much used for cross-breeding, and has influenced a number of modern cattle breeds. However, read some more information about this breed below.
Brown Swiss Cattle Characteristics
The Brown Swiss cattle is of medium to large in size. Their coat is usually a light grayish brown (but varies from almost white to gray or dark brown). There may some shading in the coat, with the forequarters often darker than the hind parts and legs. Their muzzle is black, ringed with creamy white.
Average live body weight of the mature cows is between 590 and 640 kg. And average live body weight of the mature bulls is around 900 kg. And average live body weight of the newly born calf is around 40 kg.
Uses
The Brown Swiss cattle is actually a dairy cattle breed, and it is raised mainly for milk production purpose.
Milk of the cow is unique, having longer-chain fatty acids than other popular dairy breeds and smaller fat globules in the cream (this difference means that cream rises much more slowly in milk from Brown Swiss cows).
This difference and the ratio of protein to fat in the milk is ideal for cheese making.
Special Notes
The Brown Swiss cattle become very calm and quite in nature. And the calf gain maturity lately than other breeds. They are well adapted to their local climates, but also do very well in other parts of the world.
That’s why, today this cattle breed is available in many countries throughout the world.
| Breed Name | Brown Swiss |
| Other Names | American Brown Swiss |
| Breed Purpose | Milk |
| Special Notes | Very strong, hardy, active, well adapted to local climates, do very well in many countries |
| Breed Size | Medium |
| Bull’s Weight | 900 kg |
| Cow’s Weight | 590-640 kg |
| Climate Tolerance | All Climates |
| Coat Color | Usually pale brown |
| Horned | No |
| Milk Yield | Good |
| Rarity | Common |
| Country/Place of Origin | Switzerland/United States |
The Brown Swiss cow breed is known for it’s large size, strength, and docile temperament. Originally from Switzerland, Brown Swiss cows are now found in many parts of the world and are popular for their high milk production, which is known for its high butterfat and protein content.
They have distinctive brown coloring and a unique head shape with large, floppy ears. Brown Swiss cows are also known for their longevity, with many individuals living and producing milk well into their teenage years.
Frequently Asked Questions
People ask many questions about Brown Swiss cattle. Here we are trying to list the most common questions about this cattle breed and trying to answer them. Hope you will find your answer. Don’t hesitate to ask us if you have more questions.
What is Brown Swiss cattle used for?
The Brown Swiss is a dairy cattle breed and it is used mainly for milk production purpose.
How much milk doe a Brown Swiss cow produce a day?
The Brown Swiss is a very good dairy cattle breed and it can produce milk highly. On an average, a Brown Swiss cow can produce around 46 lbs of milk per day.
What are the disadvantages of Brown Swiss cattle?
The Brown Swiss is a very good breed of domestic cattle and it has many advantages. One of the few drawbacks to the Brown Swiss breed is that their calves are harder to start on buckets.
Are Brown Swiss cows friendly?
Yes, they are very friendly. Actually, they are known for their docile and friendly disposition.
Are Brown Swiss cows good for milking?
Yes, the Brown Swiss cows are very good for milking. It is actually a dairy cattle breed and the cows are able to produce around or up to 46 lbs of milk per day.
What are Brown Swiss cows good for?
The Brown Swiss is a dairy cattle breed and it is very good for milk production.
Is a Brown Swiss cow heat tolerant?
Yes, the cows are very heat tolerant. But, they also do very well in cold climates.
What is the lifespan of a Brown Swiss cow?
Average lifespan of a Brown Swiss cow is between 15 and 20 years.
Are Brown Swiss cows A1 or A2?
Brown Swiss breeds have a higher percentage of A2 genes compared to Holstein.
What health problems do Brown Swiss cattle have?
The Brown Swiss cattle breed generally face less health problems as compared to many other cattle breeds. Four genetic abnormalities have been observed in Brown Swiss: Weaver, Spiderleg, Spinal Dysmyelination and Spinal Muscular Atrophy. The breed also has one lethal haplotype, BH2. Genetic conditions are noted on registration papers and pedigrees to assist breeders in mating decisions.
What is the temperament of a Brown Swiss cow?
The Brown Swiss cows are inquisitive, docile and quiet in temperament. All these temperament are ideal for dairy production.
How much does a Brown Swiss calf cost?
The Brown Swiss breed has been cultivated for over 1700 years, and it’s calving price varies. The cost of a day-old calf is somewhere around $50 to $70 since you have to feed him from scratch. A six-month-old calf’s price range is around $650 to $750.
How tall can a Brown Swiss cow get?
The ideal full-grown Brown Swiss cow has a cross height of approx. 142cm – 154cm and a weight of over 600kg.
What are the characteristics of Brown Swiss cattle?
The Brown Swiss cattle is of medium to large in size. Their coat is usually a light grayish brown (but varies from almost white to gray or dark brown). There may some shading in the coat, with the forequarters often darker than the hind parts and legs. Their muzzle is black, ringed with creamy white. Average live body weight of the mature cows is between 590 and 640 kg. And average live body weight of the mature bulls is around 900 kg. And average live body weight of the newly born calf is around 40 kg.
