Looking for a milk cow...

[Saffron]

What would you recommend for the best dairy cow?

Yes - for us to drink - finally convinced dh that the milk straight from the cow was truly better. He tried a glass and loves it.

[ozark_jewels]

My vote is for the cows who have served us well for 19 years. Jerseys.

Check out this thread. Read the reasons people like the breeds they chose. Might help you make up your mind.

Whats your favorite breed and why?

[Tam319]

I agree - you can't go wrong with a Jersey for a family cow They are an easy to handle breed, a smaller size than other breeds therefore less feed, great milk producers, mine have been good mamas, delicious, rich milk and you can't beat the beauty of a doe eyed Jersey cow (I am COMPLETELY unbiased of course! HA!) I'd suggest finding an older "been there, done that" cow for your first adventure in cow ownership.

[Saffron]

Thanks - we have been looking towards Jerseys, but I wasn't sure it was THE best. Now to go price them

[Up North]

The best dairy cow is one that has a healthy udder, is pregnant, never kicks you, comes when you call to her, and can be found close enough to your home that you don't need a 30 year mortgage to buy the gas to go get her.
Milk is white and meat is red no matter the color of the hide.

[jerzeygurl]

jerseys are good enough for the queen of england no less

(pbs special about windsor castle caught my eye for that reason) they have a herd of jersey and a herd of ayrshire on the castle grounds.

i'm not biased either

[65284]

Nother vote for Jerseys.

[leefarms]

I have some jerseys for sale in Northwest AL, if you are interested, I have been using them to raise calves on, but they are very gentle and wouldn't take much work to hand milk.