Buyer question
Are Shorthorn cattle good for beginners?
Yes: our Animal Library rates the Shorthorn cattle 4 out of 5 for beginners (good youth breed).
Source: the Shorthorn cattle page in the Everybarn Animal Library. Shorthorn cattle in the Animal Library
The detail
Shorthorns were developed in northeast England and were once the dominant breed worldwide. Modern beef Shorthorns are red, white or roan, maternal and easy to handle, and they are a staple of youth show rings.
- Temperament
- Docile
- Best fit
- Maternal herds, youth shows
- Docility
- 4 out of 5 (Easy to handle)
- Upkeep
- 3 out of 5 (Show prep takes work)
- Hardiness
- 4 out of 5 (Good forager)
What to weigh
Show-bred lines can be heavily influenced by other breeds and carry genetic defects. Ask for test results before buying breeding stock.