While there are many pages available on the Internet detailing the history of the Dorper Sheep, we offer this brief overview...

     The Dorper breed was developed for the arid regions of South Africa but has proven that it is adaptable to many conditions throughout the world. The rams are known to be early maturing and can breed as early as 100 days.

     A few of the lambs developed in South Africa in the 1930's from the Dorset Horn and the Blackhead Persian came out as all white. They formed the basis of the White Dorper breed. From that group of white lambs there was then an infusion of Van Rooy genetics, which is a fat-tailed breed, very similar to the Black Head Persian except for the lack of a black head. The difference in color is just a matter of choice. In South Africa, about 85% of all Dorpers are black-headed.

     Dorpers are known to have an extended breeding season, so three lamb crops in two years is possible. They have high fertility and multiple births are the norm. In South Africa, under extensive conditions, Dorpers are consistently producing 150-180% lamb crop.

     The ewes have great udders and are good milkers. Dorpers are known for their calm disposition. They show exceptional adaptability, hardiness, reproductive rates and growth (being able to reach approximately 80 lbs in 4 months ), as well as good mothering abilities.

     They are moderate framed and of good body length with a short light covering of hair and wool that sheds during the spring and summer months. South Africans select the hair/wool mix in the middle of the body of the sheep. They say that the animal will shed better than either an all hair or mostly wool Dorper.

     In 1994 the first Dorper embryos were imported into the United States and in 1995 the American Dorper Sheep Breeders Society was formed.

     Dorpers are well proportioned with excellent conformation. The best asset of the Dorper is in the hind quarters where the most expensive meat is produced. They produce superb lamb carcasses with around 90% of Dorper lambs having carcass qualities that are usually graded Choice. The meat is lean and very mild in flavor. Mature Dorper ewes average 160-210 lbs and mature rams average from 225 lbs up.