Highland Cow 101: What Makes Them Special?

If you've never met a Highland cow up close, you're going to fall in love. Here is a quick guide to what makes Dolly and Posey so unique:

What is a Highland Cow? Originating in the harsh, rugged Scottish Highlands, these cattle are famous for their majestic sweeping horns and their incredible, shaggy double coats. That long fringe of hair over their eyes (called a "dossan") helps protect them from wind, rain, and insects. Despite their rugged looks, Highlands are famously docile, gentle, and highly intelligent, which makes them fantastic companions.

Understanding the "Mini" Not all small Highlands are the same! Here on the farm, we specialize in the "True Mini."

• Standard / Medium-Mini: These are "normal" sized Highlands. While still smaller than many commercial dairy or beef cows, they are full-sized for the breed.

• True Mini (Like Dolly & Posey): By breed standards, a true miniature Highland must measure 42 inches or under at the hip by the time they are three years old. It takes generations of careful, selective breeding to achieve this perfect, compact size while maintaining their excellent health and classic proportions. Dolly is a proud 3rd-generation True Mini!

Scottish vs. American Highlands You might notice Dolly is a Scottish Highland, while Posey is an American Highland. What's the difference? Scottish Highlands trace their direct, unbroken lineage right back to the original herd books of Scotland. American Highlands share those same iconic characteristics and genetics, but are registered under the American herd book, which was established as the breed flourished here in the States. Both are spectacular representations of the breed!