Difference Between Holstein and Brown Swiss

Holstein vs Brown Swiss

Holstein and Brown Swiss are two of the most popular breeds of cattle. There are more than 800 breeds of cows around the world but people are always interested in breeds that are high milk producing. In this regard, Holstein and Brown Swiss top the list as these two are one of the highest milk producing breeds in the world. Both the breeds originated in Europe and are very popular among breeders as well as dairy owners.

Holstein

This breed of cattle was developed in Netherlands and today is considered to be the highest milk producing cattle in the world. It is a large animal that has white and black spots all over the body. Mostly found as either black or white, sometimes Holstein can be red or brown also. An average adult weighs around 580 kg.

Brown Swiss

Brown Swiss originated in the Alps in Switzerland. Having been bred in a harsh climate, this breed is able to adapt to different climatic conditions. This breed is large in size and has large furry ears. This breed is easy to rear with no special requirements. Today, it is considered to be 2nd among all breeds as far as milk production is concerned, after Holstein.

Difference between Holstein and Brown Swiss

Talking of differences, Holsteins are a bit larger in size than Brown Swiss and so also have more weight. There are differences in color too. Whereas Holsteins are mostly black or white with black and white spots over their bodies, Brown Swiss are light colored, mostly light brown or even silvery in appearance. Another physical difference is in their ears with Brown Swiss having furry ears being reared in mountains. In terms of milk production, Holsteins fare batter than Brown Swiss as their average production of milk is around 23000 kg per year in comparison to 20000 kg per annum of Brown Swiss.

As far as butter fat is concerned, Brown Swiss fares better with a butterfat content of 4% and 3.5% protein in its milk, while Holstein has lesser butterfat at 3.7%. There is another notable difference in the nature of the two breeds. Whereas Brown Swiss is very docile and friendly, Holsteins are rather sensitive and need more care from the owners.