Ayrshire cattle, breed of dairy cattle originated in Scotland in the late 18th cent.; introduced into the United States in 1837. They are medium-sized and white mixed with red or brown in color. Ayrshires are excellent grazers and good, consistent milk producers. Ayrshires were formerly used as dual-purpose dairy and meat producers. Their importance as a breed has declined, especially in favor of the Holstein Friesian, but Ayrshires remain popular in North America, Britain, Australia, New Zealand, and parts of Europe and South America.

Ayrshire or Ayr, former county, SW Scotland. Ayrshire became part of the Strathclyde region in 1975. In the local government reorganization of 1996, Strathclyde was dissolved and the council areas of South, East, and North Ayrshire were created in part from the former territory of Ayrshire.

Breed of hardy dairy cattle (see dairy farming) that originated in the county of Ayr, Scotland, in the late 18th century. It is considered the only special dairy breed to have originated in the British Isles. Its body colour varies from almost pure white to nearly all cherry red or brown. Exported widely to other countries, it is especially common in Great Britain, the U.S., and Canada.

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