These precious little sheep are now known by many names: Old World South Downs, Miniature South Downs, original South Downs, Olde English  Babydoll Sheep, Babydolls, and "the sheep that have teddy bear faces."

Usually when a breed is developed the industry starts with a large  animal and they begin to breed it smaller to obtain a novelty. In the  case of the  miniature Southdown (Olde English Babydoll) the opposite is true. You see, this miniature breed is not really a miniature breed at all; In  fact, they  are actually the original Southdown breed. The breed was originally  standardized by John Ellman of Glynd, England around 1780 in the South  Downs of Sussex  county. They are one of the oldest of the English breeds and the grand  ancestor of the other Down breeds.

The Babydoll Southdown Sheep continue to thrive today as wonderful wool  producers, organic weed control & lawn mowers, barnyard companions and sweet pets.  Those of us enjoying these little sheep have much appreciation for the  forethought and efforts of others that gave the small Southdown a place in the world of sheep today.

Babydolls are outstanding pets that produce fleece that is in the class of cashmere, a hand spinner's delight.  They provide organic weeding and make excellent companion animals.  Their gentle nature makes them a joy to own!  Be sure to follow our Instagram Page @heavensbales to see even more pictures of our sheep and other activities at the farm. 

We have sold out of 2021 and 2022 lambs.  Get on the waiting list for 2023 lambs by making a deposit below. 

Babydoll Southdown Sheep Breeders Association registered rams and ewes : start at $650

Babydoll Southdown Sheep Breeders Association registered wethers: start at $500

Pricing includes registration, first vaccinations, worming, tail docking, and vet health certificate.

Babydoll sheep are "Easy-Keepers" but they do need care and attention.

What are the basic needs of babydolls?

• Babydoll sheep need good quality grass or grass/alfalfa mixed hay or secure area to graze
• Access to fresh water at all times
• Room to exercise
• Secure shelter or secure area at night to protect from predators / shade during the day / wind block
• Sheep mineral offered free choice 
• Salt block (copper free) may be needed depending on salt content of mineral

Things to consider:

• Babydoll sheep need sheep friends (sheep are flock animals and do not do well alone)
• Hooves will need to be trimmed several times throughout the year
• Annual shearing in the spring is a must for the health of the sheep. (I prefer to hire a professional sheep shearer to do this.)
• Annual vaccinations of CD&T keep the sheep healthy
• Worm treatment given as needed to keep the sheep healthy
• A good veterinarian who knows sheep

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Deposits are required to reserve our Spring lambs.