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Breed Information | Ayrshire

Ayrshire

It is believed that the first import of Ayrshires to the United States was around 1822. Farmers in the northeastern U.S. needed a hardy dairy cow to graze pastures and tolerate cold winters. Originally a Scottish red and white breed, Ayrshires are known for their robustness, health and efficient feed conversion. 

Photo Courtesy of Dairy Agenda Today

U.S. Ayrshire Breeders’ Association represents the Ayrshire breed.

Learn about Ayrshire activities, programs and services.

U.S. Ayrshire Breeders’ Association

National Production Averages

The average annual milk production for U.S. Ayrshire cows is well-documented by NDHIA through milk recording.

View state and national lactation averages

Genetic Conditions

Two lethal haplotypes have been discovered in the Ayrshire breed, AH1 and AH2.

Learn About Genetic Conditions

Genomic Testing

Genomic evaluations are available for Ayrshires, and the breed association can facilitate genomic testing.

Genomic testing of Ayrshires

Total Merit Index: PTI

U.S. Ayrshires are ranked on the Production Type Index (PTI). This index accounts for:

  • Protein
  • Fat
  • Type
  • Daughter Pregnancy Rate
  • Udder Depth
  • Somatic Cell Score