The Belted Galloway's first recorded history indicates that they developed during the 16th Century in the former Galloway district of Scotland, a rugged and hilly south west seacoast region where hardiness was necessary for survival. They are a heritage beef breed of cattle adapted to living on the poor upland pastures and windswept moorlands of the region. The exact origin of the breed is unclear although it is often surmised that the white belt that distinguishes these cattle from the native black Galloway cattle may be as a result of cross breeding with Dutch Lakenvelder belted cattle.  The polled characteristic (lack of horns) of Galloways sets them apart from every other breed, they being derived from the original British polled cattle of antiquity.

Today the breed is as popular for its hardy characteristics as it was in the past.  In addition, the breed is beloved for its well known white belt and the cows are affectionately known as "Belties," or "Oreo Cows."  There are three colors- black, red, and dun.  The most popular and well known is the black, but the other colors are very desireable as well.  The breed, in any color, is a great addition to any family farm.