A community of passionate shepherds, hobbyists, and wool lovers sharing everything about the world's most charming animals.
Explore BreedsWhat's new in the pasture
The sheep is the gentlest of all creatures, asking nothing of the world but a bit of grass and a warm place to rest.— Old Shepherd's Proverb
Explore our comprehensive breed database with detailed profiles, photos, and temperament guides.
From lambing season to shearing day — our guides cover every aspect of sheep husbandry.
Connect with 12,000+ fellow sheep enthusiasts, share stories, and get advice from experienced shepherds.
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Every sheep has a personality. You just have to take the time to notice.— Community Member @WoolGatherer
Everything you need to raise happy, healthy sheep
Sheep need a dry, well-ventilated shelter with at least 15-20 sq ft per animal. A simple three-sided structure works well in most climates, with deep bedding changed regularly.
Quality pasture is the foundation. Supplement with grass hay in winter and provide mineral blocks. Avoid sudden feed changes — transition over 7-10 days to prevent digestive issues.
Each sheep drinks 1-3 gallons daily (more in summer and during lactation). Keep water troughs clean and check twice daily. Heated waterers prevent freezing in winter.
Most breeds need annual shearing in spring before temperatures rise. A professional shearer can handle 200+ sheep per day. Never shear in wet conditions or right before a cold snap.
Establish a relationship with a large-animal vet. Regular hoof trimming every 6-8 weeks, seasonal deworming, and annual vaccinations (CDT at minimum) are essential.
Prepare a clean, quiet lambing area 2-3 weeks before due dates. Stock iodine, colostrum supplement, and towels. Most ewes handle birth well, but be ready to assist if labor stalls.
Good fencing is your first line of defense. Guardian animals (dogs, donkeys, llamas) offer excellent protection. Lock sheep in at night if predators are active in your area.
Sheep are social creatures — never keep one alone. They recognize up to 50 faces and form close bonds. Provide varied terrain, scratching posts, and gentle handling from a young age.
Lambing season, first shearing, spring vaccinations, pasture rotation begins. Watch for parasites as grass grows. Start gradual transition to fresh pasture.
Fly management, shade and water are critical. Monitor for heat stress. Maintain pasture rotation. Wean lambs at 8-12 weeks. Mid-summer deworming.
Breeding season (put rams in). Flush ewes with extra nutrition 2 weeks before. Fall vaccinations, hoof trimming, and prepare winter shelter and hay stores.
Supplemental feeding peaks. Break ice on water daily. Late-gestation ewes need extra care and nutrition. Prepare lambing supplies. Check shelter integrity.
What the flock is talking about
We have 6 ewes due in the next 3 weeks and I'm preparing the lambing pens. This is our first year. What should I absolutely have on hand? Any signs I should watch for that labor is about to start?
Just finished my first Herdwick fleece and the resulting yarn has such incredible character. The color variation from charcoal to silver is stunning. Sharing my process and results!
We picked up three Babydoll Southdown lambs last weekend and they are absolute showstoppers. The smiling faces are real — they genuinely look happy 24/7. Photos inside!
After 3 years of trial and error, I've finally dialed in a grazing rotation that keeps our 30-head flock fed year-round on just 8 acres. Here's the full breakdown with diagrams.
Looking to beautify the fence line but everything I pick seems to be toxic to sheep. What ornamental plants have you successfully used around sheep pastures?
Driving through County Kerry last week and had the most classic Irish experience possible. Full flock takeover of a country road. Not a single sheep in a hurry. Made my whole trip.
What started as a small blog in 2018 has grown into one of the web's most vibrant sheep-loving communities. We believe these gentle, intelligent creatures deserve better representation — and we're here to give it to them.
Our team of shepherds, veterinary professionals, fiber artists, and dedicated hobbyists contribute everything from breed profiles and care guides to photography features and community discussions.
Whether you tend a flock of 200 or just love watching lambs bounce around a field, you belong here. Welcome to the flock.
The humans behind the sheep
I came for the cute lamb photos. I stayed for the incredible people. This community changed how I see farming.— @GreenPastures, member since 2019
We'd love to hear from you
Whether you have a question about sheep care, want to contribute to the site, or just want to share a cute photo of your flock — we're all ears (the floppy kind).
We're always looking for guest writers, photographers, and experienced shepherds who want to share their knowledge. Reach out with your idea!