The best sheep breed for all purposes?

[Ninjasquirrel]

Im looking into the possibility of raising sheep. The problem that I'm finding is that sheep are usually good for wool and meat or dairy and wool. Can anyone suggest to me a good all purpose breed? I want the wool for spinning, meat for a diverse diet and dairy for cheese. We dont drink much milk around here but milk would be a plus. Primarily I'm interested in cheese though.

 

[ChickenCanoe]

For multi purpose, you're probably better off with Columbia, Dorset or Montadale,
They have medium wool and are dual purpose milk and meat.
Crossbreeds like Polypay may be what the doctor ordered.

 

[NatJ]

Can anyone suggest to me a good all purpose breed? I want the wool for spinning, meat for a diverse diet and dairy for cheese. We dont drink much milk around here but milk would be a plus. Primarily I'm interested in cheese though.

Maybe Icelandic sheep?

I have no personal experience, but the books and the breeders' websites all claim they are a triple-purpose breed.

 

[Ninjasquirrel]

For multi purpose, you're probably better off with Columbia, Dorset or Montadale,
They have medium wool and are dual purpose milk and meat.
Crossbreeds like Polypay may be what the doctor ordered.

Polypay is what I was leaning towards. I'm not familiar with dorsets or what is even available in our area.

 

[ChickenCanoe]

Polypay is what I was leaning towards. I'm not familiar with dorsets or what is even available in our area.

I don't know about availability but the breeds I suggested do well in Missouri so should be OK for Indiana.

 

[Ninjasquirrel]

I don't know about availability but the breeds I suggested do well in Missouri so should be OK for Indiana.

Ok good to know. Where can I find info on breeders?

 

[ChickenCanoe]

There are breeders all over. Two in Indiana.
https://www.polypay.org/breeders/

 

[Ninjasquirrel]

There are breeders all over. Two in Indiana.
https://www.polypay.org/breeders/

Thank you soo much!!!!