Where did they come from
The original Southdown bloodlines trace right back through to the 18th Century Originating from The South Downs of Sussex County in England. They are one of the oldest heritage sheep breeds recorded. We pride ourselves on being part of the custodians to the cause to breed Babydoll sheep with quality bloodlines, improved genetics and gentle natures.
Frequently asked questions
What makes Taffy's Babydoll Sheep Breeders stand out?
Taffy's Babydoll Sheep Breeders focuses on quality bloodlines, improved genetics, and gentle natures. We are dedicated to striving for stronger sheep overal and add some variety in cuteness overload with splash of colour and a gentle temperament. Who can resist their smiling faces.
What type of sheep is a Babydoll?
The Babydoll is an early type of Southdown sheep, The Southdown Breed was established in the late 18th centrury in The South Downs of Sussex County in England, by John Ellman who aimed to improve the sheeps hardiness, size and meat quality, and they are recognised as the first documented breed of British sheep to arrive in Australia.
What are the physical characteristics of Babydoll Sheep?
In the late 20th Century, a smaller more miniature type of Southdown, later known as Babydoll was rediscovered and developed, particulatrly in North America where they tend to be smaller than our Australian Babydolls, and significantly smaller from the Heritage Southdown Sheep, breeders worked to refine the breed characteristics to suit our harsher Australian climate.
Babydoll sheep typically stand around 60cm at the wither, making them easier to handle being a smaller compact size.
Rams can reach up to 62cm, and ewes up to 61cm.
Their wool is short and springy, producing yarn with cushion and elasticity, with a micron count ranging from 23 to 29.
They require sheering each year, and are low maintenance.
Who is the ideal customer for Taffy's Babydoll Sheep Breeders?
The attraction to our clients is for anywone who wants a Babydoll Sheep as a pet, those looking for a gentle, smaller sheep breed, thats easier to manage, vineyard owners seeking organic lawnmowers, orchard owners needing grass control, small farm owners, and those interested in showing and breeding.
What are the benefits of owning Babydoll Sheep?
Babydoll Sheep are ideal for grazing vineyards and orchards due to their small size. Their docile natures and small stature make them perfect for small acreage and animal assisted therapy work. With Craig and I being older we find they are easier to handle and easier on our aging backs.
Just rattle a feed bucket and they all come running.
Are Babydoll Sheep suitable for meat production?
Yes, Babydoll Sheep are renowned for their meat quality, often referred to as the Wagyu of sheep breeds. The lamb is rich, tender, and marbled, it will be the best lamb you taste.
Do Babydoll Sheep offer any benefits beyond companionship and breeding?
Indeed! Babydoll sheep naturally fertilise as they mow lawns and orchards, making them an environmentally friendly option for land management for certified organic farm practices.
Wool can be used for organic mulch around trees, and very popular in the bases of veggie patches as it absorbs the water in the hot conditions providing a good base for moisture retention for your plants and trees.
Their wool was traditionally used for carpet and hand made woven flocking rugs which are still very popular today, thanks to the dense springy nature of the wool.
What should visitors do after visiting this page?
We encourage anyone interested in Babydoll Sheep to get in touch with us to discuss how we can find the perfect Babydoll Sheep to suit their own goals and needs.
Discover your dream babydoll sheep
Ready to add a gentle, charming Babydoll Sheep to your life or farm? Contact Taffys Babydoll Sheep Breeders today and let us help you find the perfect addition to your family. Quality bloodlines and gentle temperaments await!