Farm animal genetic resources in Switzerland
Braunvieh – Original Braunvieh and Brown Swiss breed types
Cow and young bull of the Original Braunvieh breed type at pasture (Braunvieh Schweiz)
Origin and development
The Swiss Braunvieh was developed mainly in central Switzerland (canton of Schwyz) and was therefore still known a century ago as “Schwyzer Rasse” (Schwyz breed). The Braunvieh was shaped by harsh environmental conditions and Alpine farming. Thanks to natural selection and the breeding efforts of mountain and lowland farmers, the Braunvieh became a preferred cattle breed. With its dual-purpose (dairy and beef) aptitude, it allowed any type of production requirements to be fulfilled. In the late 1960s, to meet the demand for higher milk performance and larger-framed cattle, many Braunvieh breeders used American Brown Swiss genetics in their mating programmes. However, certain breeders remained committed to rearing Original Braunvieh. They improved milk performance through rigorous selection within the Original Braunvieh population, while strictly preserving the beef aptitude.
Description
Original Braunvieh breed type h Characteristics: Coat colour brown to slate grey; horn tips and hooves black h Withers height (cow): 135–145 cm h Weight (cow): 550–800 kg
Brown Swiss breed type h Characteristics: All shades of brown, with black hooves h Withers height (cow): 140–152 cm h Live weight (cow): 650–700 kg
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