China is blessed with minor species milk resources. Minor species milks from different sources have their own distinctive characteristics in terms of nutrient composition and content as well as functional activity. Oligosaccharides, as important bioactive ingredients in milk, have many significant biological functions. With the aim of providing theoretical reference for the development and utilization of oligosaccharides in minor species milk, this paper reviews recent progress in the research on the types, structures and contents of oligosaccharides in goat milk, donkey milk, buffalo milk, camel milk and horse milk, and it also summarizes the bioactive functions of milk oligosaccharides such as probiotic, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties as well as promoting brain development.