Meat Breeds: Dorset (Polled and Horned)

Originating in Southern England, the Dorset Horn was imported into the U.S. in 1885. In 1948, a dominant gene for polledness occurred resulting in Polled Dorsets which are now popular in the farm flock states. Dorsets are medium-sized, white-faced, produce medium-wool fleeces free of black fibers and have wool extending down the legs. Dorsets are noted for their aseasonal breeding characteristics and are commonly used in crossbreeding to produce females for out-of-season breeding. Ewes are prolific, heavy milkers, long lived and produce hardy lambs with moderate growth and maturity that yield heavy muscled carcasses.

MATURE BODY WEIGHT
Ram 225-275 lb
Ewe 150-200 lb

AVERAGE FIBER DIAMETER
Micron 26-32
USDA Wool Grade 48’s-58’s

GREASE FLEECE WEIGHT
Ewe 5-8 lb

YIELD
50-65%

STAPLE LENGTH
3-4 1/2"