Best sheep breeds for the city?

[Kandypeeps05]

Hey I plan on keeping a few backyard sheep on a decent sized lot in the city limits where zoning allows it: are there any specific breeds that do better than others on small yards?

 

[LaFleche]

What is the size of the lot?

And do you have a proper and big enough stable for them and the necessary winter stock of feed?

How far away are your neighbours situated?

Sheep can be very loud, they do need regular hoof care, internal and external parasite management, depending on the breed and your location/climate they will need to be sheared at least once, better twice a year.

So I recommend to reconsider this "keeping sheep in the city" idea or move to the country to do so properly.

Maybe you would like to check this Forum for more suggestions and ideas: https://www.backyardherds.com/

 

[NatJ]

Hey I plan on keeping a few backyard sheep on a decent sized lot in the city limits where zoning allows it: are there any specific breeds that do better than others on small yards?

I don't know specific sheep breeds.
Some books on sheep raising have a section with descriptions of many different breeds.
You might check your local library to see what they have.

I have noticed, when I read descriptions of breeds, that some are praised for spreading out and wandering widely in search of grass (good for a big ranch in the west, not good in your case.)

Small breeds might be better choices (small animal, small space), although temperament is probably more important than size.

You might start by looking at what sheep breeders are in your area, and then research those specific breeds. For the most promising few, ask the breeders directly whether they think their breed would do well in your conditions.

If your area has a local sheep festival, county fair, or anything of the sort, you can go look at the animals and chat with the people caring for them, and probably learn a lot that way.

Also think about what specific qualities you want in sheep: meat, pets, wool, colored wool, etc. As an obvious example, hairsheep do not need shearing, which is great for some people as pets, meat animals, or lawn mowers, but not so good for someone who wants to spin their wool!

 

[Earthdale]

What are you wanting them for Meat,milk, or wool?

 

[Kandypeeps05]

What are you wanting them for Meat,milk, or wool?

Pets

 

[Earthdale]

Well if you can get hold of them ouessants would be great, but I doubt you can. We have East Friesans and they are friendly and good in confinement.

 

[Kandypeeps05]

Well if you can get hold of them ouessants would be great, but I doubt you can. We have East Friesans and they are friendly and good in confinement.

I was originally looking at Katahdins and babydolls for city dwelling?