Buyer question
How long do Shorthorn cattle live?
Our Animal Library gives the Shorthorn cattle a lifespan of 15–20 years.
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.
- Hardiness
- 4 out of 5 (Good forager)
- Origin
- Northeast England
- Best fit
- Maternal herds, youth shows
- Upkeep
- 3 out of 5 (Show prep takes work)
- Temperament
- Docile
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.