The large-scale and precise intelligent breeding mode for dairy cows is the main direction for the development of the dairy industry. Machine vision has become an important technological means for the intelligent breeding of dairy cows due to its non-invasive, low-cost, and multi-behavior recognition capabilities. This review summarizes the recent application of machine vision technology, machine learning, and deep learning in the main behavior recognition of dairy cows. The authors summarized identity recognition technology based on facial features, muzzle prints, and body features of dairy cows; motion behavior recognition technology such as lying, standing, walking, drinking, eating, rumination, estrus; and the recognition of common diseases such as lameness and mastitis. Based on current research results, machine vision technology will become one of the important technological means for the intelligent breeding of dairy cows. Finally, the author also summarized the advantages of this technology in intelligent dairy farming, as well as the problems and challenges faced in the next development.