Highland Cattle (also known as Scottish Highland) are considered one of the best beef producers, as well as a provider of pelts, which makes them a great choice for cooler climes.
One of the largest sized and producing dairy breeds, the black and white Holsteins to many are the quintessential dairy cow.
Jerseys are a smaller breed, producing rich butterfat milk. They're one of the most popular breeds among homesteaders.
Milking Devons, known as the first British cattle to come to America, are highly adaptable, milk and meat producers.
The Pineywoods and Florida Cracker have a rich history--and can serve a small farmer as a hardy, efficient beef, milk or draft cattle choice.
A great choice for warmer climates, Santa Gertrudis--part Brahmin (Zebu) and part Shorthorn--is a distinctive beef breed.
In addition to their striking appearance (great for shows), Longhorns make a great, low-fat meat-producing livestock choice.
The Welsh Black, a hardy, efficient beef producer, can hold its own against many other more popular beef cattle.
Yaks, exotic? Think again. Their small size, fabulous pelts and easy-working nature make them a great choice for a small farmer.
Zebu cattle include Brahman and the Miniature Zebu. If you live in a warm climate, Zebu make great sires, as well as beef and milk producers.
Tunis sheep excel as extremely feed-efficient, productive meat animals capable of thriving on poorer pastures and in hot, dry conditions. According to the National Tunis Sheep Registry website, Tunis lambs require less feed than larger sheep breeds to reach the same market weight within similar time frames.
Llamas are a versatile animal. Widely used as guardian animals and fleece producers, llamas may also be used as show animals, pack and cart animals, animal-assisted therapy workers and as pets.
