Cheviot Sheep

Looks how to spot one

wool

The Cheviot has a dense, firm fleece of white wool with a staple length of 7.5 to 12 cm and a micron count of 27 to 33. The face and legs are free of wool, with a black muzzle and black feet. The ears are pricked and alert, and the overall carriage is lively and stylish.12

Personality what they are like

Cheviot sheep are generally calm and mild-mannered, though some individuals can be a little standoffish. They are not flighty as a whole and are easy to handle. Their independent nature means they require less human intervention than many other breeds.54

Daily activity how busy a day looks

Cheviot sheep are active foragers that thrive when given plenty of space to roam and graze. They are naturally hardy and will spend most of their time outdoors, even in harsh weather. A large pasture with good grass is ideal.41

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

Cheviot sheep require minimal grooming. Their wool-free faces mean they never suffer from wool blindness. They need shearing once a year for their fleece. Their hard black feet are less prone to foot rot, and their natural worm resistance means less drenching and crutching. Regular hoof trimming is still recommended.14

Home where they are happiest

Cheviot sheep are extremely hardy and can withstand cold, wet winters and hot, dry summers. They need a simple three-sided barn or shelter to escape rain and extreme weather, but they often prefer to stay outside. A secure, well-fenced pasture is essential to keep them safe from predators.41

Food basics what goes in the bowl

Cheviot sheep are excellent foragers and will get most of their nutrition from good pasture. In harsh conditions or when snow covers the ground, their diet should be supplemented with hay and a small amount of feed. They require less supplementary feeding than many other breeds due to their hardiness.41

Company who they like around

Sheep are flock animals and Cheviots are no exception. They should always be kept with at least one other sheep, ideally a small flock. They are independent and do not require constant human attention, but they do need companionship from their own kind.4

The story where it all began

The Cheviot breed originated in the Cheviot Hills on the border of England and Scotland, where it was recognised as a hardy sheep as early as 1372. The breed was named by Sir John Sinclair in the late 18th century, who selected the native long-woolled hill sheep of the region and called them Cheviots. They were introduced to the United States in 1838 and to Australia in 1938. Over time, two distinct types emerged: the South Country Cheviot (Southie) and the larger North Country Cheviot (Northie), which developed from crosses with Leicester and other rams. Today, Cheviots are found in the UK, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, Norway, Canada and the United States.6137

Recognised by the official bits

American Cheviot Sheep Society

The breed society that maintains the pedigree and standards for Cheviot sheep in the United States.8