Dorper Sheep

The Dorper breed was developed in South Africa during the 1930s by crossing the Dorset ram to the Black Headed Persian ewe, which was indigenous to Africa. This new breed was born out of a necessity to have sheep that would have good meat qualities, yet be able to thrive in the arid conditions of South Africa. Selection was pursued to produce top carcass characteristics as well as having high fertility and lambs that would grow out quickly. Dorpers were imported into North America in the mid 1990s. The Dorper and White Dorper are maintained as separate breeds, but they only differ in color. Bred for its lean, tender meat, its broad frame and ideal muscling, the Dorper is a very good forager, tolerant to a broad range of conditions, capable of breeding year-round with increased lambing percentages as compared to wool-type sheep in studies at the Texas A&M University. The breed is particularly well suited for small growers since there is not a need to shear the sheep. Some growers are using these sheep to help maintain their properties rather than mowing grass and spraying weeds.

 

---

Dorper Breed Characteristics

Intelligence:

The Dorper is a smart, intelligent sheep that is easy to work. It is generally easy to handle, free moving and usually not aggressive. Dorpers definitely have their own unique personalities.

Hardiness:

Able to adapt to the environment, either hot or cold climate. Does well under harsh, extensive conditions, as in more intensive operations.

Grazing Habits:

Dorpers are non-selective grazers. They browse in a similar manner to a goat and have the ability to graze at a higher level than traditional sheep. They are productive in areas where other breeds could not survive.

 

Non-Seasonal Breeding:

Will breed at any time of year with the ability to produce lambs three times in two years.

Fertility and Mothering:

Excellent mothers who produce good quantities of milk. They are very fertile, generally a primipara (first ‘lamber’) will have one lamb, but twins and triplets are common in older, experienced ewes. Ewe lambs can be bred at 8-10 months of age.

Growth Rates:

The growth rate in this breed is exceptional. Lambs are vigorous and have high survivability. Under good conditions lambs are able to reach 80 lb live weight in 3.5 to 4 months. The lambs are excellent feed converters; they put all their energy into meat production. Mature rams average 240-275 lbs. Mature ewes reach 155-200 lbs.

Conformation:

Well put-together carcasses with good fat distribution.

Early Maturity:

Dorpers mature early sexually, some ram lambs can begin to work at four to five months, and ewes can begin cycling at 5 months of age. Normal breeding age for ewes is eight to 10 months.

Parasite Tolerance:

The Dorper is not resistant to parasites, but appears to have a higher tolerance to internal parasites than most other breeds. This allows for less drenching and also makes the Dorper a good proposition for organic farming.

Cross breeding:

This breed crosses well with commercial sheep of other breeds. Dorpers are often crossed with Rambouillet or Katahdin.