Miniature Highlands

Popularity of Highland cattle, fueled by misinformation circulating on the internet and social media, has generated an unprecedented interest in “miniature” Highland cattle.


The Canadian Highland Cattle Society does not recognize a miniature Highland breed or version. To the best of our knowledge, no official Highland breed society worldwide does.
 

There are many reasons a purebred Highland may be on the small side. The most common being nutrition. Many “mini” breeders claim the Kyloes that originated on the western islands of Scotland were smaller. They were indeed, but when introduced to less harsh conditions on the mainland, they grew to their potential. Poor milk production, placental insufficiency or inadequate feed may all slow or stunt growth. So can illness and congenital defects. Breeding unthrifty, poor examples with poor feed conversion can also result in small animals. Breeding those stunted animals is irresponsible. They still have regular size genetics. You increase the risk of dystocia, endangering both the cow and calf.
 

The CHCS encourages the integration of Highland genetics in crossbreeding programs to impart both maternal and carcass traits. However, some “breeders” cross them with smaller breeds, marketing them as miniature Highlands. It is important to recognize them as such – crossbred animals.

Some will introduce the chondroplasia (dwarf) gene to reduce size further. Often carrier animals do not have a frame to support their weight, shortening their lifespan. Chondroplasia is a lethal gene, two copies will result in a bulldog calf, that will not survive.
 

Purebred Highlands are not known to carry the chondroplasia gene, but the CHCS proposed Bylaws go a step further stating:
 

The following animals cannot be or, in the event of DNA based evidence, remain registered:

• Cloned or genetically modified animals;

• Animals which are found to be positive or a carrier for lethal genes, including dwarfism; and/or

• Genetically polled animals.
 

Highland cattle have so much to offer as a hardy beef animal. The CHCS encourages breeders and buyers alike to make sound decisions to help preserve the grande old breed.