As with all breeds of cattle there are traits that breeders find 'acceptable' and 'unacceptable' .  The following is a guideline of characteristics that most highland breeders find desirable.  These are a great guideline if you are new to the Highland business. 

Breed Characteristics 

Body

Straight topline from the shoulders to the tail head, with the tail blending smoothly into the body.  Good width along the back especially behind the shoulders and between the hooks.  Shoulders should not be too prominent.  Well sprung ribs.  Well filled out over the plates (located between the hooks and the tail)  Full, well developed thighs.   Hind-quarters viewed from the rear should appear deep and square.  Straight sturdy legs, set well apart, with good bone and profuse hair covering.  Large well set hooves.

Head

Proportionate to the body.  Broad between the eyes.  Short from the eyes to the muzzle.  Eyes clear, bright, alert, yet calm.  Broad, clear flesh colored muzzle with distended nostrils.  Dossan (the hair between the horns) should be wide, thick and reach the muzzle.   Jaw neither overshot nor undershot.

Bull Horns

Extend level out of the head, curving slightly forward and downwards.  Strong and masculine. Symmetrical.   Avoid “doonie horns” which tend to immediately droop downwards out of the head Instead of extending horizontally from the head. 

Cow Horns

      Extend more or less horizontally out of the head and rise.  The rise and twist of the horns varies from animal to animal.  Feminine, graceful, symmetrical appearance.   Avoid :doonie horns” 

Hair

      Colder climates produce long profuse hair.   A soft fluffy undercoat is protected by a long, strong outer coat which can reach 14 inches in length.   Both coats shed annually, during warm summer weather.
Colors – Black, Brindle, Yellow, Red, Dun, Silver Dun and White. 
Most common colors are Red and Yellow  

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