The origin of the white belt is unknown; it is thought to have resulted from some cross-breeding with the Dutch Lakenvelder in the seventeenth century.

[4]: 129 In the twentieth century the Belted Galloway was exported to many countries including Australia, Brazil, Canada, France, Germany, the Netherlands, New Zealand and the United States.

[4]: 129 Like other breeds, the Belted Galloway suffered heavily during the epidemic of foot-and-mouth disease in the British Isles in 2001, and a substantial part of the total population was lost.

[4]: 129  Belted Galloways are generally of a quiet temperament, but cows have a strong maternal instinct and protect calves against perceived threats.

[8] The Belted Galloway is well adapted to harsh climatic conditions, hill terrain and rough grazing on coarse grasses;[4]: 129  it is normal for the cattle to be kept out throughout the winter, regardless of the weather.

[4]: 129 An old strain is listed as the "Original Belted Galloway Cattle" in the Ark of Taste of the Slow Food Foundation for Biodiversity.