Top 10 Cattle Breeds in Pakistan: Best Breeds for Dairy and Agriculture

4 min.

Top 10 Cattle Breeds in Pakistan: Best Breeds for Dairy and Agriculture

Cattle farming is a cornerstone of Pakistan’s agricultural economy, with millions of rural families depending on livestock for their livelihood. From high milk-yielding dairy cows to robust breeds used in agriculture, Pakistan is home to a variety of cattle that thrive in its diverse climates. These breeds play a crucial role in producing milk, beef, and draft power, making them invaluable to both smallholder farmers and commercial operations.

This guide explores the top 10 cattle breeds in Pakistan, showcasing their key traits, uses, and contributions to the nation’s agricultural success.

Page Contents

Top 10 Cattle Breeds in Pakistan

1. Sahiwal

Key Characteristics: Reddish-brown coat, medium size, and gentle temperament.
Primary Use: Dairy production.
Fun Fact: Sahiwal is Pakistan’s most famous dairy breed, producing up to 12 liters of milk daily. Its heat tolerance and disease resistance make it a favorite among farmers.

2. Red Sindhi

Key Characteristics: Red or reddish-brown coat, small to medium size, and hardy nature.
Primary Use: Dairy production.
Fun Fact: Originating in Sindh, this breed is prized for its high butterfat milk, making it ideal for traditional dairy products like ghee and yogurt.

3. Cholistani

Key Characteristics: White coat with red or black spots, medium frame, and resilience to harsh climates.
Primary Use: Dairy production and draft power.
Fun Fact: Native to the Cholistan desert, this breed is well-adapted to arid conditions and can graze on sparse vegetation, making it invaluable for desert farming.

4. Bhagnari

Key Characteristics: Large frame, white or grey coat, and muscular build.
Primary Use: Draft power and beef production.
Fun Fact: Bhagnari cattle, native to Balochistan, are often used in plowing and transportation due to their strength and endurance.

5. Tharparkar

Key Characteristics: White or grey coat, medium size, and drought resistance.
Primary Use: Dual-purpose (dairy and draft power).
Fun Fact: Tharparkar cattle are native to the Thar Desert and are valued for their ability to thrive in extreme heat while producing milk and performing agricultural tasks.

6. Nili-Ravi (Buffalo)

Key Characteristics: Black coat, large size, and gentle temperament.
Primary Use: Dairy production.
Fun Fact: While technically a buffalo, the Nili-Ravi is often grouped with cattle due to its significance in Pakistan’s dairy industry. It produces milk rich in fat, ideal for making cream and butter.

7. Kundi (Buffalo)

Key Characteristics: Black coat, medium size, and compact build.
Primary Use: Dairy production.
Fun Fact: Another buffalo breed, the Kundi is popular in Sindh and thrives in hot, humid conditions, producing milk high in butterfat content.

8. Dajal

Key Characteristics: Large frame, light grey coat, and muscular build.
Primary Use: Beef production and draft power.
Fun Fact: Native to the Dajal region of Punjab, this breed is often used for pulling carts and plowing fields due to its strength and endurance.

9. Rojhan

Key Characteristics: White coat, medium size, and hardy nature.
Primary Use: Draft power and beef production.
Fun Fact: This breed, native to southern Punjab, is highly valued for its ability to thrive in tough agricultural environments while providing labor and meat.

10. Dhanni

Key Characteristics: Spotted coat, medium size, and docile temperament.
Primary Use: Beef and milk production.
Fun Fact: Native to the Potohar Plateau, Dhanni cattle are known for their lean meat and moderate milk yields, making them a versatile choice for smallholder farmers.

Interesting Facts About Cattle Farming in Pakistan

Dairy Contribution: Pakistan is one of the world’s largest producers of milk, with breeds like Sahiwal and Red Sindhi playing key roles in meeting domestic demand.
Cultural Significance: Cattle are an integral part of rural traditions, often used in events like cattle races and as symbols of wealth.
Climate Adaptation: Many of Pakistan’s native breeds, such as Tharparkar and Cholistani, are highly drought-resistant, making them ideal for arid regions.
Smallholder Dominance: Over 80% of Pakistan’s livestock is owned by smallholder farmers, highlighting the importance of cattle to rural livelihoods.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Which cattle breed is best for dairy production in Pakistan?

A: Sahiwal and Red Sindhi are the top dairy breeds in Pakistan, known for their high milk yields and adaptability to local climates.

Q: Which breed is most commonly used for draft power?

A: Bhagnari and Dajal cattle are popular for their strength and endurance, making them ideal for plowing and transportation.

Q: Are there breeds suited for desert climates?

A: Yes, Tharparkar and Cholistani cattle are specifically adapted to survive in arid and semi-arid conditions.

Q: How do Pakistani farmers care for cattle in harsh climates?

A: Farmers often rely on native breeds that are naturally resistant to heat and drought, providing shade, water, and access to grazing lands to ensure their health.

Conclusion: A Foundation of Agriculture

Cattle farming in Pakistan is a lifeline for millions of rural households and a cornerstone of the country’s agricultural economy. From the high milk-yielding Sahiwal and Red Sindhi to the robust Bhagnari and Dajal breeds, these cattle are essential for sustaining livelihoods and supporting the nation’s food security.

As Pakistan continues to invest in improving its livestock sector, these breeds will remain central to its agricultural heritage and economic growth. Whether producing rich milk or powering agricultural fields, Pakistan’s cattle breeds embody resilience, adaptability, and productivity.