Top 5 Best Dairy Cow Breeds for Milk Production and Profit Guide
If someone had shown me this guide before I started my dairy farm, I would’ve known which are the best dairy cow breeds that produce the most milk and also bring the highest profits. Among the 77 milk-producing breeds, these five stand out as the best milking cow breeds for dairy farming.
Through this post, I will tell you about the best milking cow breeds that not only give more milk but also suit the Indian climate and market.
Table of Contents
1. Gir Cow – The Best Indian Breed of Cow for Milk
The Gir cow is one of the most trusted and best Indian cow breeds for milk. Known for its consistent milk production, it delivers around 12 to 20 litres per day. The cow continues milking for 8 to 10 months straight, which is ideal for dairy farmers.
Its milk has about 4 to 4.5% fat, and when sold in the right market, it can fetch ₹70 to ₹80 per litre. This makes Gir cows a top contender for the best cow for milk. Gir milk is also rich in two beneficial proteins, which contribute to health. Gir cattle are strong and highly adaptable, making them a favorite in Indian cow farming.
2. Sahiwal Cow – Low Maintenance, High Profit
Among the best dairy cattle breeds, the Sahiwal cow is a star performer. It produces 12 to 18 litres of milk daily with a fat content between 4.5% and 5%. In the market, its milk usually sells for ₹50 to ₹60 per litre.
This is an indigenous Indian cow breed for milk that’s low maintenance, highly immune, and adjusts well in both hot and cold climates. That’s why many dairy farmers consider it one of the best milking cow breeds for profitable farming.
3. Rathi Cow – More Milk with Less Feed
Rathi cows produce around 12 to 18 litres of milk every day with a fat percentage between 4% to 5%. This cow is impressive because it keeps giving milk for 8 to 10 months, and it performs well even with limited feed.
Its milk also sells for ₹50 to ₹60 per litre. This makes Rathi one of the best Indian cow breeds for farmers looking to maximize output with lower input costs. Definitely one of the best cow breeds for milk production in India.
4. Holstein Friesian (HF) – Best Milking Cow in the World
If we talk about the best milking cow in the world, the Holstein Friesian takes the top spot. You’ll find this breed on almost every large dairy farm. It gives a massive 25 to 35 litres of milk daily and keeps producing for 8 to 10 months.
Though the fat content is a bit lower at 3.5% to 4%, its volume compensates for it. The milk usually sells for ₹35 to ₹50 per litre. HF is clearly among the best milking cow breeds for large-scale commercial dairy setups.
5. Jersey Cow – Balanced Output and Fat Content
The Jersey cow is also widely known among the best dairy cow breeds. It produces 15 to 25 litres of milk daily and maintains an average fat content of 4% to 5%. Its milk typically sells for ₹40 to ₹50 per litre.
Jersey cows are small in size but efficient in production, making them an excellent choice for medium to small dairy farms. Their milk quality and consistent production place them among the best breeds of dairy cows globally.
Which Milk Is Best – Cow or Buffalo
This is a common question: Which milk is best, cow or buffalo? Cow milk is lighter, easier to digest, and contains more protein, especially in breeds like Gir and Sahiwal. Buffalo milk, on the other hand, is thicker and has more fat. For children, elderly people, or those with digestion issues, cow milk is often considered better.
Smallest Cow Breed in India – A Quick Mention
If you’re curious about the smallest cow in India, look up the Vechur cow from Kerala. It’s one of the smallest cow breeds in India, highly efficient, and requires very little space and feed.
Final Words: Choosing the Best Milking Cow Breeds
So, these are the best dairy cow breeds you should consider if you’re planning to start a dairy farm. Whether it’s a high-volume breed like Holstein Friesian or a low-maintenance option like Sahiwal, selecting the best milking cow based on your goals and resources is key to your success.
Use this guide to plan smart and profit more. Knowing your Indian cow breeds, their milk quality, and their unique strengths can truly be a game-changer for your dairy journey.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What is the best milking cow breed in India?
A: Gir and Sahiwal are considered the best Indian cow breeds for milk. They produce 12–20 litres per day and have high fat content.
Q2: Which cow gives the most milk in the world?
A: Holstein Friesian is the best milking cow in the world, producing 25–35 litres per day.
Q3: Is cow milk better than buffalo milk?
A: Cow milk is lighter, easier to digest, and has more A2 protein. Buffalo milk is thicker and has more fat. It depends on your health needs.
Q4: Which is the smallest cow breed in India?
A: The Vechur cow from Kerala is the smallest cow breed in India, known for its small size and efficient milk production.
Q5: What are the best cow breeds for milk in India?
A: Gir, Sahiwal, Rathi, Jersey, and HF are the best cow breeds for milk, especially suited to different climates and budgets.