Here's some of the best info we've collected to help you learn more about adorable Babydoll sheep:
SOME BASICS:
Adult Height: 18-24" from their shoulder to the ground - only about knee high! Adult Weight: 60-125lbs Ram vs Ewe Stature: Rams are typically larger and more rectangular Colors: Black (can vary from brown to black) or White (typically off-white) Shearing: Must be shorn annually, usually in spring Hooves: Must be trimmed regularly, depending on your terrain this may be every 2-6 months. Gestation Period: 140-150 days Diet: High quality hay or pasture and free choice sheep mineral. They can have a small amount of feed pellets as a treat, however, use caution as too much can cause bloat. Socialization: Babydolls are mild mannered and can easily be pastured with other small livestock such as Nigerian Dwarf or Boer Goats. We recommend separating different livestock types overnight where they can each have access to their breed specific minerals, it's important that Babydoll sheep do not have access to goat minerals. We also do not recommend pasturing Babydolls with Donkeys because Donkeys have been known to be too rough with Babydolls. Shelter: Although they are very tolerant of temperature and weather they need access to a 3-walled shelter so they have the option for protection from the elements
BREED HISTORY, BY NABSSAR:
The BABYDOLL Southdown is a sheep of the early Southdown type imported into the U.S. and seen in England in the 1800's through the early 1900's. They are 18" to 24" at the shoulder and display the original Southdown type and characteristics. The Southdown breed of sheep originated in the South "Downs" of Sussex County, England, and is one of the oldest of the Down breeds. English farms kept these sheep for their flavorful meat and fine fleece. By the 1960's, producers and consumers desired larger carcasses, and the smaller sheep were crossed with larger sheep to produce a larger Southdown which make up the background of the larger American Southdown which are not to be confused with the BABYDOLL Southdown. Around 1990, small flocks of the smaller type Southdowns were gathered up and labeled Olde English BABYDOLL Southdown to differentiate them from the larger modern American Southdown.
Today, known simply as BABYDOLL Southdown, the BABYDOLL sells well in the companion and 4-H markets and is valued in vineyards, sustainable agriculture, and organic farming. Their wool is favored among spinners and fiber artists who enjoy fine wool with remarkable spring. They also have select carcass value for the table, an attribute not shared by most other miniature breeds. Today's breeders believe breed preservation is of utmost importance and strive to keep this wonderful breed of sheep from forever being lost.
