Size
65 – 120 kg.
Color
White, brown, black.
Physical Appearance
Long and balanced with a somewhat roman nose, the head and neck. Large, brilliant, and well separated eyes are present. The heads of the rams are powerful. Strong, visible vertebrae form the backline. Withers slightly lifted and shoulders firmly placed. In ewes, the chest is moderate; in rams, it is wide and deep. Legs with robust, fine-boned bones, and well-spaced hocks.
Characteristics and Genetics
The first recognised dairy sheep breed in New Zealand is DairyMeade NZ. They were the offspring of the original East Friesian milking genetics that Dr. Jock Allison introduced to Dunedin, New Zealand, in 1992. A very highly suited milking ewe for New Zealand and international conditions has been produced over the years via careful breeding with East Friesian rams and thorough culling. They originate from the same regions of Germany and the Netherlands and are available in both pure white and black with a white blaze, foot, and tail.
Uses
A meat sheep breed is the Dorper. It is primarily grown to produce meat.
Temperament
Dorpers are regarded as even-tempered sheep and are simple to manage. They will adjust to various persons and characters as well as various environmental conditions. They are a good breed for both novice and expert handlers, but because they are a stocky type, they can be difficult to set up.
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