What type of livestock is predominantly raised for milk production?

The type of livestock predominantly raised for milk production is dairy cattle. These animals have been specifically bred and managed to produce high volumes of milk, which is a primary source of dairy products such as cheese, butter, and yogurt. Dairy cattle breeds, such as Holstein and Jersey, are renowned for their milk yield and quality, making them the forefront choice for commercial dairy farming.

In contrast, while pigs are typically raised for their meat (pork), and sheep can produce milk as well, they are generally more associated with meat or wool production. Beef cattle are primarily raised for meat rather than milk, with their genetics and farming practices focused around maximizing beef quality and yield. Thus, dairy cattle are uniquely suited to fulfill the role of milk production within the livestock industry.