With their moderate size and gentle nature sheep are easy to raise. They don’t need much for shelter and they can graze for most of their food. When starting a flock, buy non purebred ewes (female sheep). When purchasing a ram (male sheep), pick the best purebred you can afford; as the good qualities will gradually improve the the entire flock. As you’re scoping out proper sheep select alert animals that are close to 2 years old (the age they begin to breed). Be sure they are free of any indication of disease, particularly sore feet, teats, or udders, and that they have no signs of worms. Sheep can be white, black, or brown; if you wish to dye the wool then white sheep are your best bet.
Feeding
Sheep can get all the nutrients they need from good-quality pasturage. The sheep pasture must be well fenced to keep the sheep in and predators out. Construct a 4 foot high fence of medium-weight wire field fencing attached to heavy wooden post. Set each post at least 3 feet deep in the ground and no more than 15 feet apart. Install a strand of barbed wire at the bottom and another one or two strands at the top to protect sheep form predators. An acre of good-quality pasture containing around half tender grass and half legumes will provide enough food for 4 sheep most of the summer. To ensure that they don’t overgraze and ruin the pasture, rotate the grazing area. If pasture is not available or not enough the sheep’s diet can be supplemented with grain, such as corn, oats, and wheat. Feed each sheep about a pound of grain per day (a nursing mother may need 1 1/2 to 2 pounds per day).
Housing
Sheep thrive in cold weather so their housing requirements are minimal. A three sided shed will suffice in most climates. The shelter should contain at least 12 square feet of space per animal. A wide door is mandatory so pregnant ewes do not get crowed as they enter and leave. Proper ventilation is also mandatory. The floor can be dirt or concrete, but not wood, and should be covered with about 1 foot of litter. Sheep manure is usually dry and can be allowed to accumulate in the litter. Change out dirty litter at least once a year, and clean and disinfect the floor and building. If damp spots appear before the year is up they need to be removed and replaced with fresh litter.