They range in color from red to white and all combinations of these colors, such as spotted or roan. Shorthorns are well liked by many commercial cattlemen for crossing on other breeds for the production of feeder cattle. These were developed in Scotland and are mostly used for crossing. They are small but exceedingly hardy. They have a long, coarse outer hair coat and a soft, thick undercoat which gives them natural body protection against severe weather conditions.
Acceptable colors are black, brindle, light red, red, dun, silver and yellow.
These cattle originated in France. The breed is distinguished by its rich, red-gold color over the back, shading to light buckskin or straw color under the belly and around the legs and muzzle. These originated from Switzerland. In color they are light red or cream with faces much like the Herefords. They usually have some white spots on a white band over the shoulders.