Deep, long -bodied, low set, the Highlander is profusely haired with a double coat. The undercoat is soft and downy providing superior insulation. The long outer-coat, which may grow to thirteen inches, is well oiled to shed rain and snow. Tests conducted in Canada to assess the cold weather vigour of various breeds reflect this built in insulation. The Highland breed proved hardier than any available bovine tested except bison.
Eye problems are almost unknown in the breed.
The exceptionally long forelock hangs down over the eyes and provides excellent protection against blackflies, deerflies, face flies, and bot flies, all of which bedevil other livestock in the Northeast. Highland cows make excellent mothers. Because of the breed's short neck and small head, calving problems are rare. Cows do not hide out their new-born, but stay with them until they are old enough to travel. New-born calves do not chill, even when born in severe weather.