The Holstein-Friesian came from Holland and adjacent areas, the Ayrshire from Scotland, the Jersey and the Guernsey from the Channel Islands off the coast of England, and the Brown Swiss from Switzerland. Among the major dairy breeds of B. indicus found primarily in India are the Gir, Hariana, Red Sindhi, Sahiwal, and Tharparker. The major breeds show distinctive characteristics that may be used for identification. It is followed in size by the Brown Swiss, Ayrshire, and Guernsey. The Jersey is the smallest, with mature cows weighing 1000 lb.
Breeds also differ in color.
The Guernsey is fawn, with white markings and a yellow skin, and the Jersey may vary from a light gray to a very dark fawn, usually solid in color but sometimes with white spots. Breeds also differ with respect to volume of milk produced and milk composition. Holstein-Friesians produce the largest volume, averaging 17,400 lb, followed by the Brown Swiss, Ayrshire, Guernsey, and Jersey. Beef cattle have been bred and selected primarily for the production of meat, and many breeds have been developed or adapted for special conditions. The major breeds of registered beef cattle in North America, listed in order of numbers, are Angus, Hereford, Polled Hereford, Charolais, Shorthorn, Santa Gertrudis, Brahman, Brangus, and Red Angus.