Have you ever dreamed of waking up to Highland cows grazing outside your window? If so, you’re not alone — and this guide will show you how to start a Highland cow hobby farm the right way. From land and fencing to feeding, shelters, and costs, we’ll walk you through it all.
This complete guide will walk you through how to start a Highland cow hobby farm — whether you have 2 acres or 20. We’ll cover everything: land prep, legal rules, fencing, feeding, breed sourcing, and more. If you’re just starting out, this is the practical, no-fluff resource you need.
Why Highland Cows Are Perfect for Small Farms
Originally from the rugged Scottish Highlands, Highland cows (or Highland coos) are one of the oldest registered cattle breeds in the world. What makes them ideal for a small-scale hobby farm?
- Docile and gentle: They’re calm around people and easily handled if socialised early.
- Hardy and disease resistant: Their double coat protects them in rain, snow, and wind — and helps repel pests.
- Efficient foragers: They thrive on rough pasture and low-input grazing, making them affordable to feed.
- Low maintenance: They rarely require grain or complex feeding plans.
You can read more about their breed history on Wikipedia or check out breed guidance from The Livestock Conservancy.
Land Requirements: How Much Do You Need?
The golden rule is 1.5–2 acres per cow for good pasture. However, a well-managed rotational grazing system can allow smaller acreages to support more animals by reducing overgrazing and parasite loads.
Before you invest in animals, planning how to start a Highland cow hobby farm involves preparing the land properly.
Sample Layout for a 5-Acre Hobby Farm:
- 3–4 grazing paddocks: Rotated every 1–2 weeks
- 1 paddock with permanent shelter and hay ring for winter or emergencies
- Portable electric fencing: Ideal for splitting paddocks as needed
If you’re not sure your land is ready, check your soil quality, drainage, and access to clean water before getting started.
👉 See: How Much Space Do Highland Cows Need?
Legal Steps Before You Start a Highland Cow Hobby Farm
It’s not just about buying cows — you’ll need to be registered and compliant with local laws.
UK Hobby Farmers
- CPH Number: You’ll need a County Parish Holding number (CPH) to keep livestock.
- Animal Movement Licence: All cow movements must be tracked through CTS or ScotEID.
- Holding Register: You must record births, deaths, and treatments.
US Hobby Farmers
- Premises ID: Register your land for livestock
- Veterinary oversight: Work with a local large-animal vet on vaccination and health planning
- Zoning laws: Some areas require special permission for livestock
Always check with your DEFRA representative (UK) or local ag extension office (US) before you buy animals.
Fencing, Shelters, and Handling Equipment
You don’t need to build a fortress, but safe, strong fencing is critical — especially with horns involved.
Fencing Options:
- Woven wire (stock netting): Durable and low-maintenance, ideal for perimeter fencing
- High-tensile electric wire: Works well for dividing paddocks and rotational grazing
- Temporary electric polywire: Great for subdividing areas quickly
Height should be at least 4.5–5 feet. Install a double gate system for easy loading, unloading, and moving between pens.
Shelters:
Highland cows can live outside year-round, but they need shelter from extreme wind and sun:
- Three-sided pole barns: Popular and easy to build
- Natural tree lines: Can be effective windbreaks in mild climates
- Dry footing: Gravel or woodchips prevent hoof rot in wet seasons
Feeding Highland Cows: What Do They Eat?
Feeding Highland cows is relatively simple. Most of the year, they’ll graze happily on pasture. In winter, or when pasture is poor, you’ll need to provide hay.
Basic Feeding Guide:
- Pasture season: Free grazing on clean, rotated fields
- Winter/drought: 15–30 lbs of hay per day per adult cow
- Minerals: Provide a loose mineral supplement or lick tub
- Water: Always fresh and unfrozen — minimum 10–15 gallons per day
Optional supplements like beet pulp or small grain rations can be used for extra energy or for training. Avoid overfeeding grain — Highland cows don’t need it to stay healthy.
👉 Related post: What Do Highland Cows Eat?
Choosing Your First Cows: Starting a Highland Cow Hobby Farm
For most new hobby farmers, the best place to start is with 1–2 heifers or steers. Here’s what to know:
- Steers: Castrated males — friendly, docile, ideal for non-breeding farms
- Heifers: Young females — can be bred later for calves
- Cows: Adult females — may already be bred or have calved
Unless you’re experienced, avoid bulls. They require secure infrastructure and calm handling skills. Always ask the breeder for medical records, temperament history, and what the cow has been raised with (halters, grain, etc.).
Visit in person if possible. Online livestock marketplaces like Highland Cattle USA or breed society websites often list registered breeders.
Handling Equipment & Tools You’ll Need
You don’t need a full ranch setup, but a few smart tools make life easier:
- Halter and lead rope: For moving animals and basic training
- Mineral tub stand or wall-mount feeder: Keeps feed dry
- Manure fork and barrow: For cleaning shelter areas
- Fly spray and brush: Highland cows love being brushed!
- Hoof trimmer access: Or a mobile vet who offers it
Get into the habit of brushing and checking your cows weekly. It builds trust and lets you spot health issues early.
👉 Fun read: Do Highland Cows Like Being Brushed?
One of the most overlooked parts of how to start a Highland cow hobby farm is having the right tools on hand from day one.
Daily & Seasonal Tasks for Highland Cow Hobby Farms
Highland cows are low-effort, but not no-effort. You’ll want to develop daily, weekly, and seasonal routines to keep them healthy.
Daily Tasks:
- Check water, food, shelter
- Walk the field for signs of injury, escape attempts, or predators
- Observe behaviour — limping, lameness, or head droop = red flag
Weekly Tasks:
- Rotate pastures
- Clean out shelter bedding if used
- Brush and inspect cows
Monthly/Seasonal Tasks:
- Hoof checks
- Worming if needed (work with vet)
- Mineral and supplement restock
- Plan ahead for hay and water storage (especially winter!)
Many small farmers keep a whiteboard or digital tracker for tasks and herd notes — helpful if more than one person is involved.
How Much Does It Cost to Keep Highland Cows?
Here’s a typical breakdown for a 2-cow hobby setup:
Startup Costs:
- 2 Highland cows: £2,000–£4,000 total
- Fencing & gates: £1,500–£3,000
- Shelter (DIY or kit): £600–£2,000
- Water troughs & minerals: £100–£200
Annual Costs:
- Hay & feed: £300–£600 depending on climate
- Vet visits, worming: £100–£300
- Maintenance & supplies: £150–£300
Highland cows are not “cheap pets” — but they are affordable if well managed, and they give a lot back in beauty, calm, and presence.
Can You Make Money With a Hobby Farm?
It’s possible, but don’t count on it — especially at first. Hobby farms are more about lifestyle and passion than pure profit. However, some ways people offset costs or earn part-time income include:
- Breeding: Selling calves to other smallholders
- Beef sales: Highland beef is premium and often pasture-raised
- Agri-tourism: Hosting tours, photography sessions, or farm stays
- Merch: Some farms sell wool crafts, branded gear, or local honey
That said, most new hobbyists take 2–5 years before they break even or turn a reliable income. Start small, and treat anything profitable as a bonus — not the goal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I keep just one Highland cow?
Technically yes, but it’s not ideal. Cows are herd animals and become stressed when isolated. If you only want one, consider pairing with a companion steer or donkey.
Do I need a bull?
No. In fact, most hobby farms do better without one. If you want calves, consider artificial insemination or borrowing a bull for a short period.
Are Highland cows safe around kids?
They’re generally docile and curious, but still large animals. Supervision and respectful behaviour are key. Early handling builds trust.
Can I keep Highland cows in warm climates?
Yes — with shade, water, and fly protection. They shed their undercoats in summer and adapt well. Learn more here: Can Highland Cows Live in Hot Climates?
Can they be pets?
They can be incredibly affectionate — but they’re still livestock. Read more here: Do Highland Cows Make Good Pets?
Common Beginner Mistakes to Avoid
- Buying too many cows too fast: Start with 1–2 until you’re confident
- Ignoring local laws: Always register your land and cattle correctly
- Underestimating fencing: Horns, size, and weather all challenge weak fences
- Skipping health checks: Even hardy cows need occasional vet care
- Romanticising the work: Farming is fulfilling — but it’s daily, messy, and physical
How to Start a Highland Cow Hobby Farm: Final Thoughts
Now that you know how to start a Highland cow hobby farm, the next step is putting your plan into action — slowly and intentionally. Raising Highland cows isn’t just a lifestyle change — it’s a relationship. With the land, the seasons, and the animals themselves. You don’t need hundreds of acres or decades of experience to get started. What you need is curiosity, consistency, and care.
Start slow. Learn as you go. Ask for help. And enjoy the beauty of these iconic animals at your own pace.
Useful Next Reads:
- How Much Space Do Highland Cows Need?
- What Do Highland Cows Eat?
- Can You Ride a Highland Cow?
- Do Highland Cows Like Being Brushed?