Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
Teeth and Shape of Head
First, study the teeth and the shape of the head. Not only should the teeth be
in good shape, but the bite itself is also important. As Paula's friend Darrell
Salsbury, DVM, says, “They can't shear grass if the blades don't match.” In a
well-conformed animal, the upper jaw is the same length as, or just a hair
longer than, the lower jaw. In other words, the teeth of the lower jaw have to
line up with the dental pad of the top jaw.
TYPES OF MOUTH CONFORMATION
The sound mouth
The parrot mouth
The long lower jaw
Body
Next, look at the body. The back should be long and straight, and the belly
should also be fairly straight. Both the chest and the pelvic area should be
broad and fi rm. The legs should be widely set, fairly straight, and forward fac-
ing, with feet well placed on the ground. The rump should be rounded, with
a slight downward curve, but should not look like a slope that you could ski
jump off. Sheep being raised for meat should be large, with strong muscles
and trim features. Sheep being raised for wool should have a slightly more
angular body with dense, clean bright fl eece.
Udder
In a mature ewe, look at the udder next. A healthy udder is soft and pliable,
warm (but not hot) to the touch, and symmetrical with two good teats widely
spaced on each side. The teats should not show signs of chapping or
hardness.
