I would be a little cautious of Balwens for a first sheep. A friend of mine who has Balwens, Badger Face and Black Welsh Mountain feels that the Balwens are perhaps the most delicate of the sheep he breeds. Most sheep will follow a bucket quite happily with a little practice so a dog really isn't necessary unless or indeed desirable unless you have enough work for him. A bored collie can be a pestilential nuisance and far more work than the sheep. We have Black Welsh Mountain, Jacobs and Shetlands here and some will do anything for a biscuit or a scratch behind the ears while others are more flighty. Sitting in the field with a book and a bowl of feed works wonders in getting them tame and also gives time for a break. I would buy a breed that pleases your eye first and foremost, preferably something primitive or improved rather than a modern breed because they do tend to be more hardy. If you want to breed lambs to keep then you might want to think about how difficult it will be to register them. The rules for Balwens are very strict and quite complicated because the markings have to be just right. In your position I would be tempted to go to one or two of the agricultural shows in your area and talk to the owners of any sheep that take your fancy. Most will be very helpful and don't be put off if the ones you like best are covered in rosettes. There are few breeders who won't have some lambs that haven't made the grade in showing terms but are still perfectly sound that they would not be prepared to sell for a reasonable price. And few I would suggest who wouldn't be prepared to offer advice on an ongoing basis if it is needed.
But be warned - sheep can be addictive! - says the one who started with 6 Jacobs and now has over 70 sheep.
Good Luck.
Topic: New to sheep and need some advice please? (Read 10978 times)
