Search for local sheep farms, sheep breeders and livestock producers, then compare breed, age, sex, production purpose, health information, management system and transport arrangements before purchasing.

This page features Katahdin, Dorper, St. Croix, Suffolk, Dorset, Hampshire, Texel, Merino, Rambouillet and East Friesian sheep.

Katahdin are hair sheep commonly considered for low-maintenance flock systems and meat-oriented production.

Dorper sheep are commonly associated with meat production and are a popular choice for producers interested in hair-sheep systems.

St. Croix are hair sheep that can be considered by producers looking for a low-maintenance sheep production system.

Suffolk is a well-known meat-oriented sheep breed and is frequently used in lamb-production systems.

Dorset sheep are used in meat and breeding systems and are particularly known in production discussions for out-of-season lambing.

Hampshire sheep are commonly associated with meat production and commercial lamb-production systems.

Texel sheep are known for their muscular type and are often considered for meat-lamb breeding programs.

Yes. Merino is strongly associated with fine wool production and is a major search category for producers interested in wool sheep.

Rambouillet sheep are commonly associated with fine wool production and are a popular choice for wool-oriented sheep operations.

East Friesian sheep are primarily associated with dairy sheep production and sheep-milk-oriented breeding programs.

Consider breed suitability, flock purpose, age, sex, reproductive status, health history, body condition, feet and legs, parasite-management program, pasture resources, fencing, shelter, feed and transportation.

The choice depends on your goals. Ewes are generally purchased to build a breeding flock, while rams are selected primarily for breeding and genetic improvement. Select breeding animals according to your flock objectives.

Breeding stock refers to animals selected for reproduction and flock improvement, including ewes, ewe lambs, rams and ram lambs.

The best breed depends on your climate, pasture, labor availability, market, production goals and management system. Hair sheep, meat sheep, wool sheep and dairy breeds can each fit different operations.

Sheep primarily consume forage such as pasture and hay, with additional feed or minerals used when appropriate for their nutritional requirements and production stage.

Sheep need protection from severe weather, appropriate shelter or weather protection, adequate ventilation and a safe environment.

Yes. Sheep should have access to clean, fresh water, with requirements varying according to conditions and production stage.

There is no universal acreage figure. Pasture carrying capacity depends on forage productivity, climate, soil, management, season and grazing system. Start conservatively and adjust stocking according to pasture conditions.

Use an integrated management program involving pasture management, monitoring, appropriate diagnostics and targeted treatment under veterinary or livestock-professional guidance.

The appropriate fencing system depends on flock size, terrain, predators, management style and whether the fence is permanent or portable. Sheep fencing should prevent escapes and provide safe, secure containment.

Hoof care may be required depending on the individual sheep, terrain, housing and hoof growth. Inspect feet regularly and seek appropriate professional or veterinary guidance when problems occur.

New arrivals should be managed carefully, inspected for health concerns and introduced into the flock using a biosecurity plan appropriate to your operation.

Sheep should be transported using suitable livestock transport with adequate ventilation and enough space to avoid overcrowding. Sheep should be handled calmly and safely.

Merino and Rambouillet are strong wool-oriented choices. Breed selection should also consider climate, market, wool objectives and management requirements.

Suffolk, Hampshire, Dorset, Texel and Dorper are among the breeds commonly considered for meat-oriented production, while breed suitability depends on the farm system and market.

East Friesian sheep are particularly associated with dairy sheep production. A dairy flock requires appropriate nutrition, breeding, milking facilities and management.

Yes. Sheep can be managed in pasture-based systems when forage supply, grazing management, fencing, water, shelter and flock health are properly managed.

Plan for fencing, water, feeders, forage, minerals appropriate for sheep, shelter, handling facilities, health-management supplies and transportation before bringing animals onto the farm.