What is a "Holstein"?

The Holstein is a breed of dairy cattle known for its distinctive black and white markings. They are large, docile animals that are primarily raised for milk production and are one of the most popular and widely recognized dairy cattle breeds in the world. Holsteins are known for their high milk yield and efficiency in converting feed into milk, making them a popular choice for dairy farmers. They are typically characterized by their black and white coat pattern, with large black patches on a white background, although there are also red and white Holsteins. Holsteins originated in the Netherlands and have been selectively bred for milk production over many generations, resulting in a breed that is highly specialized for dairy farming.