Origins: Originally natives of the south and southwest districts of Ireland. The breed was in Canada prior to 1900 but has become more popular since 1977.

Quality traits: Well used to roaming shelterless hillsides with sparse forage. Their small size makes them easy to handle and their smaller cuts of meat have also proved popular. In Canada, they are classified as a dual-purpose breed – for both meat and milk.

Weight of bulls: 1000 lbs.

Weight of cows: 800 lbs.

Appearance: Smallest purebred dual-purpose breed of cattle in the world. Can be black, red or dun. All purebreds are horned.