The Dorper breed was developed in South Africa in the 1930s and 40s using the Horned Dorset and Blackheaded Persian. Selection was made to produce top carcass characteristics and the ability to thrive under harsh, arid conditions. The Dorper has a white body with a black head, while the White Dorper is all white. Otherwise the two types are identical but are considered separate breeds. The coat is a mixture of hair and short wool which is shed, eliminating the need for shearing. Mature rams weigh between 225 and 275 lbs. Mature ewes average 160-220 pounds. They are naturally polled, rams usually have minimal horn development. Dorpers have calm dispositions.
The Dorper breed is capable of having three lamb crops in two years. Generally, ewes can be bred as early as six months of age, but we prefer to wait until the ewe is nine to ten months. After lambing, the ewe can be bred back in four to six weeks. Lambing rates can be 150% or greater with ewe's producing twins, especially after the first lambing period. But, one of the most important attributes of this breed of sheep is NO SHEARING. In the spring, the wool/hair begins to shed naturally. Some shed completely, others will leave a "saddle" on their back. (see picture below)
The Dorper breed is capable of having three lamb crops in two years. Generally, ewes can be bred as early as six months of age, but we prefer to wait until the ewe is nine to ten months. After lambing, the ewe can be bred back in four to six weeks. Lambing rates can be 150% or greater with ewe's producing twins, especially after the first lambing period. But, one of the most important attributes of this breed of sheep is NO SHEARING. In the spring, the wool/hair begins to shed naturally. Some shed completely, others will leave a "saddle" on their back. (see picture below)
