Horned Dorsets originated in England and Wales and have been an identifiable breed since the 16th century. Imported into Canada during the 19th century they were, for many years, one of the cornerstones of the sheep industry. The Canadian Horned Dorset type owes more to the older style British animal. It is a lower set animal and smaller than its American or Australian counterpart. After the introduction of the Polled Dorset in the 1950’s, many breeders switched over and the Horned Dorset declined in numbers. The Polled Dorset originated from a mutation of the Horned Dorset which occurred at North Carolina State University in the early 1950’s. They were accepted into the US breed registry in 1956 and since that time have spread into Canada and become a major contributor to the commercial lamb industry. Dorset ewes are relatively prolific, good mothers and breed out of season. The breed adapts well to confinement and is readily used in accelerated crossbreeding programs. As they respond well to confinement, they do well under feedlot conditions and on small holdings with intensive management.

Ram Weight: 90-125 kg (H) 115-150 kg (P)

Ewe Weight: 55-90 kg (H) 80-115 kg (P)

Lambing Percentage: 175%

Fleece: Bright white, Dense

Staple Length: 7-10 cm