Why choose sheep?
People keep sheep for meat, wool, milk, grazing or as part of a diversified farm. Breeds differ a lot in size, temperament, wool type and mothering. Choose a breed that fits your climate and your purpose, and ask local shepherds what does well nearby.
Sheep are flock animals. Keep at least a few together, and be prepared for the daily attention they need, especially during lambing.
Ask whether your local area has a lamb market or processor, because that affects which type of sheep makes sense for you.
- Meat breeds for lamb production
- Wool and hair breeds for fiber or easy care
- Dairy breeds for milk and cheese
- Small breeds suited to limited acreage
What fencing and shelter work?
Good fences protect sheep from dogs and coyotes and keep them from wandering. Ask your extension office or local sheep producers about fence types that work in your area. Pay attention to the bottom of the fence where predators dig and push.
Sheep need shelter from wind and wet, and shade in heat. Wool animals especially can suffer in hot weather, so plan for airflow and cool water.
Gates and latches deserve attention, since a single open gate can lose the whole flock in minutes.
- Predator resistant perimeter
- Windbreak and dry bedding
- Shade and fresh water
- Handling pen for shearing and vet work
What do sheep eat?
Sheep are grazers that do well on good pasture and hay. Rotating them between paddocks helps pasture recover and breaks the cycle of parasites. Ask your NRCS or extension office about grazing plans.
Be careful with minerals and feed. Some products made for other livestock contain levels that can harm sheep. Ask your vet or extension specialist for the right choices.
Check pasture for weeds that can harm sheep, and ask your extension office for a local list. Do not graze animals on pastures recently treated with chemicals without reading the label's grazing restrictions.
What about parasites and health?
Internal parasites are a leading problem for sheep. A vet can help you set up fecal testing and a deworming approach that avoids resistance. Learn to check eyelid color and body condition so you catch trouble early.
Hoof care, shearing and vaccines are part of a yearly routine. Ask your vet what fits your region and how to keep records.
Shearing is a skilled job. Many small flock owners hire a shearer, so book early, because they are busy in season.
How do I protect sheep from predators?
Predators are a real risk. Options include strong fencing, bringing animals in at night, and guard animals. Each has costs and limits, and none is perfect.
Report losses and learn local rules about wildlife. Many predators are protected, so check with your state wildlife agency and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service before taking any action against them.
A guard dog, llama or donkey can help, but each needs training, care and compatibility with your flock, and does not suit every farm.
What is lambing like?
Lambing is the busiest time of the year. Plan shelter, supplies and help. Most ewes lamb on their own, but some need help, and weak or cold lambs need warmth and colostrum quickly.
Ask your vet for a lambing plan and know how to reach them after hours. Keep records for each ewe and lamb.
Keep a lambing journal. Notes on which ewes had twins, needed help or rejected lambs help you decide who stays in the flock.
- Clean, dry lambing pens
- Towels, a heat plan and a colostrum plan
- Your vet's number and a backup contact
- Lambing journal to record every birth
What are the costs and rules?
Costs include fencing, feed, hay, shearing, vet care and processing. Wool prices can be low, so many keepers do not count on fleece income alone.
States have rules about identification, movement and sales of sheep, and about selling meat. Check with your state department of agriculture before you sell.
Talk with other shepherds. Local knowledge about pasture, parasites and markets is often worth more than any general guide.
- Fence, shelter and handling equipment
- Hay and feed for the winter
- Shearing and vet visits
- Processing and transport
Key takeaways
- Sheep need strong, predator resistant fencing and dry shelter.
- Rotational grazing and fecal testing help control parasites.
- Lambing needs planning, supplies and a vet contact.
- Check state rules on identification, movement and meat sales.
- Keep careful records and learn from nearby shepherds.
Sources and further reading
Last reviewed: November 12, 2026. Written by the Rural Farm Life Editorial Team. See our editorial policy.