15 Sheep Types, Characteristics and Pictures

Sheep (Ovis spp.) are domesticated, ruminant mammals raised for wool, meat, and milk. Globally, there are numerous sheep breeds, each with unique traits and adaptations. Here are 15 well-known types of sheep from around the world.

1. Merino Sheep

Originating in Spain, Merino sheep are famed for producing fine, long, high-quality wool prized in the textile industry. They are adaptable and have become foundational to many modern sheep breeds. Spain recognizes several variants including white, black, Grazalema Merino, and Montes Universales Merino.

2. Suffolk Sheep

From the UK, Suffolk sheep are a cross between Southdown rams and Norfolk Horned ewes. They are easily recognized by their black face and legs and are known for their fast growth, quality meat, and wool.

3. Dorper Sheep

Developed in South Africa, Dorper sheep are hardy and drought-resistant, ideal for arid climates. They produce lean, high-quality meat, and have either black or white heads (White Dorper).

4. Texel Sheep

Texel sheep hail from the Texel Island in the Netherlands. Known for muscular build and meat quality, they are now common in the US, Australia, Argentina, and more. Their dense, white wool is ideal for knitting garments.

5. Romney Sheep

A dual-purpose breed from England’s Sun and Green region, Romney sheep provide both wool and flavorful meat. They are robust and well-suited to wet, cold climates.

6. Cheviot Sheep

Native to the Cheviot Hills between England and Scotland, this breed is adapted to mountainous terrain, producing fine white wool. It has upright ears and wool-free head and legs.

7. Jacob Sheep

Of Scandinavian origin, Jacob sheep are known for their multiple horns (usually four) and black-and-white spotted fleece. Hardy and parasite-resistant, they require good forage and shelter from rain.

8. Shetland Sheep

Native to the Shetland Islands of Scotland, these small sheep produce soft, fine wool in various colors—gray, brown, white, and black. They faced extinction in the 1970s but have since recovered.

9. Karakul Sheep

Also called QaraQul, this ancient breed from Central Asia is known for its coarse wool and lamb pelts, used in coats and hats. It also serves as a meat source.

10. Awassi Sheep

Originating in Syria and Mesopotamia, Awassi sheep are renowned dairy producers, with high-fat milk ideal for cheese making. Medium-sized with reddish-brown patches and long, broad ears.

11. East Friesian Sheep

From northern Germany, this breed produces some of the highest milk yields among sheep. Its milk is used for premium cheese and yogurt. It has a slender, wool-free tail and is used in crossbreeding to enhance milk production.

12. Lacaune Sheep

A French breed known for producing milk and meat, Lacaune sheep supply milk for Roquefort cheese. Well-adapted to Spain’s farming systems, they are medium to large with sparse, white fleece and a fine head.

13. Scottish Blackface Sheep

Easily identified by their black face, short black limbs, and spiral horns, this hardy breed thrives in rugged terrain and is prized for both meat and wool.

14. Dorset Horn Sheep

From southwestern England, Dorset Horn sheep can breed year-round. They produce high-quality meat and dense white wool. Notable features include symmetric spiral horns and a muscular build.

15. Navajo-Churro Sheep

Brought to America by Spanish settlers, this historic breed is valued by Navajo people for its long, strong wool, ideal for traditional weaving. Small-bodied with long tails and horns.

animal tags： sheep