British Breeds of Sheep 



131 



and eighty per cent of the number of ewes. It is the 

 early lambing propensity that gives the Dorset its 

 greatest popularity. Two lambings per year are possi- 

 ble in most instances. It is sometimes recommended 

 that the fall-dropped lambs be sired by Down rams 

 and all marketed, and the spring crop be pure bred for 



Pig. 28. — A Dorset ram shown in 1911 by Nash Bros., Tipton, Ind. 



sale or replenishing the flock. Many of the friends of 

 the breed, however, advise that continued twice-a-year 

 breeding impairs the real value of the flock. The value 

 of lambs ready for market in early winter makes their 

 production an attractive business to flock masters who 

 have the skill necessary to raise them and suitable mar- 

 keting facilities. The Dorset ewe has a pronounced 

 propensity to come in season and get in lamb at a 

 much earlier date than is common to the other breeds. 



