The main idea of this thesis was to figure out the use qualities of Highland Cattle. Using interviews and available literature I found out how this breed fits to Finland and how the breeding works in practice. The use qualities especially contain selective breeding, meat producing, landscape managing, by-products and recreational usage.

The written part contains information regarding Highland Cattle, what is already known, what is expected from this breed and what do the breeders appreciate. The written part reveals only basic knowledge.

The main point of my thesis is the survey, which was achieved with farmvisits, where I interviewed Highland Cattle breeders. I visited four different farms altogether, which all had different backgrounds. Some farms had more animals than the others. To some farms Highland Cattle breeding is the main source of income and to the others it is just a side-business. I was looking for practical experiences from the interviewed farms to get an idea how everything functions on their farms in practice.

The survey completed by Highland Cattle farmers, uncovered that selective breeding is the most important thing, because it not only preserves but even improves the breed. Meat producing and landscaping are essential qualities of Highland Cattle, whereas recreational use and by-products have minor roles.

The main emphases in breeding Highland Cattle are selective breeding and meat producing, but landscaping is a good addition and help. When you posses enough willingness, time and concentration, Highland Cattle is a good production animal.