Sheep care
Sheep are calm but easily frightened animals that depend strongly on their flock. Good pasture or quality hay, secure fencing, protection from predators and regular shearing are the cornerstones of sheep care.
- Class
- Mammal
- Group
- Sheep and goats
Quick care summary
The care essentials for Sheep.
In depth
In short
- Sheep should never be kept alone; separation from the flock is very stressful for them.
- Pasture grass and hay are the basis of their diet.
- Wool sheep need shearing at least once a year.
- Hoof checks and dry ground help prevent foot problems.
- In Türkiye, sheep and goats must be ear-tagged and registered.
Sheep are ruminant flock animals kept for thousands of years for wool, milk and meat. Being naturally timid, they feel safe within the flock; sudden noises, chasing and rough handling easily stress them.
Housing and space
- Pasture and fencing: Sheep need pasture to graze and sturdy fencing. Keeping them in a secure fold at night is recommended to protect them from predators such as dogs and wolves.
- Shelter: It should be dry, well ventilated, free of draughts and cleanly bedded. During lambing, separate protected pens for ewes and lambs are helpful.
- Shade and wind shelter: Provide shade in summer and shelter from cold wind in winter.
Feeding routine
The basis of a sheep's diet is pasture grass and hay. Quality hay is given when pasture is short or in winter. Because needs rise during pregnancy, lactation and growth, a balanced concentrate and mineral supplement may be needed. Feed changes should be made slowly.
Water
Clean, fresh water must always be available. Lactating ewes, and the whole flock in hot weather, need more water.
Daily care
- Shearing: Wool sheep are usually shorn in spring before the weather warms up. Unshorn wool can lead to heat stress and hygiene problems in the heat.
- Hooves: Check hooves regularly and trim them when needed. Wet, muddy ground increases foot problems.
- Daily checks: A sheep standing apart from the flock, limping or not eating needs attention.
Behaviour and social needs
Sheep follow a leader and stay close together. Be calm when handling them, avoid cornering them and move them slowly where possible. A sheep left alone may panic.
Seasonal care
Woolly sheep are sensitive to heat, so shearing time and shade matter. Lambing usually happens in late winter and spring, so prepare in advance.
Legal requirements (Türkiye)
In Türkiye, sheep and goats must be identified with ear tags and registered in the small ruminant registration system. Ask your provincial or district agriculture directorate for the current rules.
Good to know
The most important points.
- Harmful plantsAsk a local veterinarian or agricultural adviser whether your pasture and hedgerows contain plants that could harm your animals. Do not feed garden waste or ornamental plant clippings to livestock.
- Health programmeSet up a regular health programme — vaccinations, internal and external parasite control and lambing — with a local veterinarian.
Similar animals
Other animals in the same group.
For a better tomorrow
Respect for animals, more sustainable farming.
Mindful care that protects the welfare of farm animals means a better future for animals, people and nature.
- Support animal welfare
- Encourage sustainable farming
- Live in harmony with nature
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