Brown Swiss Registry
By Brown Swiss Cattle Breeders Association
Last reviewed: December 2025
The official breed registry for Brown Swiss cattle in the United States, maintaining pedigree records for America's oldest dairy breed and one known for...
The Brown Swiss Cattle Breeders Association of the USA was founded in 1880 and maintains the herd book for Brown Swiss cattle, the oldest dairy breed with origins traced to Swiss monasteries in the Middle Ages.
Brown Swiss are renowned for their longevity, structural correctness, and milk ideally suited for cheese production. The breed's A2/A2 protein frequency and casein structure make Brown Swiss milk particularly valuable for artisan cheese makers. Their calm temperament and strong feet and legs contribute to low replacement costs.
The Association provides comprehensive services including registration, genetic programs, national shows, and youth development through Junior Brown Swiss activities.
Key Features
- Herd Book Registration: Official pedigree documentation maintaining breed purity since 1880
- Genetic Programs: Performance testing, type classification, and genetic evaluations
- National Shows: National Brown Swiss Show and All-American nominations
- Youth Programs: Junior Brown Swiss activities including national convention
- Brown Swiss Bulletin: Monthly breed publication with genetics, news, and member features
Advanced Features
- PTA Evaluations: Brown Swiss-specific genetic evaluations through CDCB partnership
- Genomic Testing: Integration with major genomic testing laboratories
- Linear Classification: Official type evaluation using 50-point scorecard
- Cheese Merit Traits: Selection for milk components favorable to cheese production
- International Genetics: Access to Swiss and European Brown Swiss genetics
Ideal For
Farm Types: Cheese-focused dairies, Longevity-minded operations, Family farms valuing temperament, Show cattle breeders, Crossbreeding programs
Competitive Advantages
What sets Brown Swiss Registry apart from alternatives:
- Exceptional longevity - Brown Swiss average 6+ lactations vs industry average of 2.8
- Ideal milk composition for cheese with superior protein casein structure
- High A2 beta-casein frequency for specialty milk markets
- Docile temperament reducing handling stress and labor
- Strong feet and legs minimizing lameness and structural issues
Pricing Information
Here is the pricing information for Brown Swiss Registry:
Annual membership with per-animal registration fees based on age.
Pricing Model: per-head
Volume discounts available for large registrations.
Pros & Considerations
- Official Brown Swiss breed registration
- Comprehensive genetic evaluation integration
- Strong cheese-maker breed positioning
- Active breed promotion
- Classification and type services
- Medium-sized breed association
- Registration and service fees
- Full benefits require active membership
- Breed growth opportunities vary by region
Implementation & Setup
How to implement Brown Swiss Registry on your dairy operation:
Implementation Timeline: Registration processed within 2-3 weeks for complete applications
Training & Support
Training and support options available for Brown Swiss Registry:
Support Channels:
Evaluation Questions
Key questions to consider when evaluating Brown Swiss Registry:
- Is cow longevity important to your profitability calculations?
- Do you market milk for cheese or specialty products?
- Is temperament a priority for your herd management?
- Are you interested in A2 milk marketing opportunities?
- Would you benefit from Brown Swiss crossbreeding for specific traits?
- Do you plan to show cattle or sell registered breeding stock?
- Are young people interested in Junior Brown Swiss activities?