Shorthorn Cattle: Breed Profile

Shorthorns were developed in northeastern England in the eighteenth and early nineteenth centuries, and breeders such as the Colling brothers made them famous. The cattle may be red, white or roan, which is a mix of red and white hairs. Shorthorns were exported widely and became one of the most influential breeds in the world.

Purpose

Shorthorns were developed as a dual-purpose breed, used for both beef and milk, and today beef-type lines are common. They are valued for docility, mothering ability and the ability to cross well with other breeds.

Where the breed stands today

The breed is established, with active junior programs, though it is less numerous than it was a century ago. Several related registries and types exist, including milking and beef lines.

What to look for in a Shorthorn project animal

Look for a deep, thick body, a well-set head, sound legs and the breed's red, white or roan color. For heifers, check udder development and femininity. Have a knowledgeable adult, a breeder or your veterinarian look the animal over before you buy, and compare more than one seller.

Showing Shorthorn at 4-H and FFA

Cattle are judged as breeding animals, as market animals and in showmanship. Rules differ by fair, so read your show book before you commit.

Pros

• A distinctive roan or red coat that judges remember
• Calm temperament and good mothering
• An active junior association with shows and leadership programs
• Beef cattle shows usually offer breed classes, showmanship and market classes, so there are several ways to compete.
• Cattle teach feeding, grooming, handling and record keeping, which carry over to every other project.

Cons

• Smaller classes at many shows
• Fewer breeders in some regions
• Market steers may face preference for black-hided cattle
• Cattle projects are expensive once feed, vet care, entry fees and travel are added up.
• A steer or heifer needs a sturdy pen, a wash rack, a trailer and a place to work every day.

Caring for your project

Plan on daily feeding, brushing and halter work for months before the show. Keep a record book from the first day, and write down feed, health care and costs, because judges and buyers both ask about them.

Getting started

A good first step is to visit a show in your area and watch the classes for your species. Talk with exhibitors, the superintendent and your club advisor about what they look for, and ask whether the show has a class for Shorthorn. Many students find a mentor this way, and a mentor can save you from the most expensive beginner mistakes.

Planning your budget

Add up the purchase price, feed, bedding, veterinary care, entry fees, travel and equipment before you commit. Ask your advisor what a typical project costs in your county, and plan for the chance that the animal will not qualify for the sale. A realistic budget keeps the project fun for the student and fair to the family.

Show-day tips

Arrive early so the animal and the exhibitor can settle before the class. Check the show book for the class name, age limits and check-in time, and bring your paperwork, feed, water and cleaning supplies. Judges notice calm, well-prepared exhibitors, so keep the animal clean, stay quiet in the ring and answer questions honestly. Afterward, ask the judge for feedback, because a few minutes of advice can shape next year's project.

Learning from the ring

Win or lose, every class teaches something. Write down what the judge said, compare notes with other exhibitors and talk with your advisor about one thing to improve before the next show. Students who treat each show as practice usually improve fastest, and they tend to enjoy the project more.

Questions to ask a breeder

• Are the animal and her parents registered, and can I see the papers?
• How old is she, and what has she been fed?
• How has she been handled, and what is her temperament?
• What vaccinations, health care and treatments has she had?
• Will she be eligible for the classes and sale at my show?

Bottom line

Shorthorns are a historic, friendly breed that suits students who want a calm animal with a good story.

To see how the contests work, read How Breeding Classes and Market Classes Work. Suppliers, vets and feed stores near you are listed at agriculture.directory. For a lighter look at fair life, farm.fm has Managing Grazing Patterns: Enhancing Efficiency and Sustainability on Your Angus Ranch, and the Livestock Conservancy tracks the status of rare breeds.