Breed History: The Galloway is one of the oldest and purest of native UK breeds. Being naturally polled it originates from the 6 shires of Scotland making up its namesake. While predominantly black, it can be found in red, dun and white (w/points in all three color), along with belted (in all three colors). Galloway were imported to Canada in 1853 and the US in 1866.
With a dual purpose coat designed for the cool & wet climate of Southwest Scotland the breed is ideally suited for Northern climates and adapts well to hot climates with shorter periods of humidity. A shaggy outer coat repels wind and rain, while the softer inner coat retains heat reducing winter feed costs.. Average breed weights are: bulls 1800lbs - cows 1250lbs - calves 75-80lbs.
With a renewed interest in genetics for grass-fed beef the Galloway has a lot to offer modern cattlemen. Considered a medium sized breed, thick, compact and well-fleshed, they are noted for an ability to utilize coarse grasses & browse the fringe. From such limited input they are able to produce a high quality beef product with little grain &/or silage.
The Galloway is noted for maternal traits so prized by breeders. While docile in dispostion, when threatened they will form a crescent wedge for defense. The cows produce vigorous calves with ease will into their teens.
Now found worldwide Galloway structure differs from many modern breeds. Allowing for the majority of meat to be found from behind the shoulder along the back to the tail head, and down the rump with noted secondary muscling.
Canadian Government research found the Galloway coat ranks second only to Buffalo in density. USDA research places Galloway beef in the top percentile for flavor, juiciness, and tenderness.
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