Shetland Sheep are classified as a “primitive” or “unimproved” breed. They still retain the same qualities that they had when they were roaming wild on the Shetland Islands. “Improved” or domesticated breeds have been selected for larger size (more meat, heavier fleece) and for color (usually white). Unfortunately, hardiness and adaptiveness have been to some degree diminsihed in the improved breeds.

Shetlands are a small breed. Rams weigh around 90 to 125 pounds and ewes about 75 to 100 pounds. The rams have beautiful spiraled horns. Ewes are generally polled (no horns) although a few horned ewes can be seen in Shetland genetics. Shetlands have a naturally fluked tail, which means docking is not necessary.

They are hardy and can survive difficult situations. Shetland owners just don't seem to have the problems that other shepherds have. Shetlands sheep tend to recover just fine from many ailments.

Shetland ewes generally live 15 to 18 years. There is a report from the Shetland Islands of a ewe that had twins at the ripe old age of 21 years and who then lived six more years. Lambing is usually problem-free. Twin labs are common but occasionally triplets show up. Shetland ewes are excellent mothers and produce plenty of milk.

Many Shetlands love attention. Scratching under the face, along their neck usually causes them to quite happily wag their tails. In the picture above, our little ewe Millie trotted over to the fence expecting scratches, not to be photographed for the World Wide Web.

This animal seems to have it all: adaptiveness, hardiness, and personality. It is small wonder that their popularity has grown rapidly since entering the United States .