258 PRINCIPLES OF FARM PRACTICE 



The Dorset yields a fair quality of mutton and a light 

 fleece. Its lambs are produced earlier than others; hence it 

 is valuable for raising spring lambs for an early market. 



The Cheviot is an exceedingly hardy breed and is especially 

 adapted for use on rough grazing land. 



Making a start. The principles of animal improvement 

 as set forth in Chapter XX should be kept in mind and 

 systematically carried out. Young ewes conforming as 

 nearly as possible to the type desired should be secured for 

 the foundation stock. The ram should be a good representa- 

 tive of the breed chosen. In a few years, through the process 

 of grading, the foundation stock can be replaced by well- 

 bred animals. 



Equipment. The most important equipment consists of 

 buildings and fences. Dryness and good ventilation free 

 from drafts are the main essentials to be provided in a build- 

 ing or shelter for sheep. Any building possessing these 

 essentials will be satisfactory. Neither smooth nor barbed 

 wire fences can be used to advantage because of the danger 

 of catching the wool. A woven wire fence is perhaps the 

 best; it not only makes a safe enclosure but also affords 

 protection against dogs. 



Feeding. The general plan for feeding sheep has already 

 been suggested in an earlier paragraph. During the grazing 

 season provision for good pasture is usually sufficient. Dur- 

 ing the winter, plenty of roughage, including legumes of 

 some kind to balance the ration, and a small amount of grain 

 will meet the general feeding requirements. 



General care and management. There are many details 

 in the care and management of sheep that must be omitted 

 in this discussion for lack of space. A few principles only 

 can be presented. 



