What is the difference between the Blackhead and White Dorpers?

The coloration is a preference as all other traits are basically equal. A White Dorper ram is used when a breeder does not want spotted lambs produced from a cross-breeding program with solid white ewes.

Are all Dorpers polled?

Most Dorpers are without horns but many rams have scurs, and some will have horns and this should not disqualify a Dorper ram from being stud. Experience has shown that horned rams tend to be more masculine and have a stronger libido.

How much does a Dorper Weigh?

Mature rams typically weigh over 250 lbs., ewes, 220 lbs. However, one should not be obsessed with mature weights. Feed efficiency is more important than mature weight and fast growing lambs are traits where the Dorper excels.

What is the productive life of a Dorper?

Under good management, a Dorper ewe should produce lambs for 7 years or more.

Do they have a lot of twins and triplets?

This depends more on available nutrition. In South Africa, under good range conditions, a 150 percent lamb crop is typical and rates more like 180 percent with improved nutrition.

Can you breed Dorper ewes any time of year?

Yes. Again, available nutrition has a major role in conception rates. Lambing intervals of 8 months, three lamb crops every two years, is a common practice.

At what age can you start breeding ewe lambs?

As early as 6-8 months but better conception rates will be achieved at 9-12 months and the later bred ewes will grow out better.

How many ewes can a Dorper ram cover?

Ram lambs can frequently cover 20-25 ewes in a 51-day exposure. Yearling rams can usually cover 50 ewes.

Do Dorpers have to be sheared?

No. A Dorper will shed its covering each summer. Dorpers will shed more completely as they mature.

Are Dorpers parasite resistant?

Yes, but not parasite proof. Many other factors determine parasite problems but with proper management techniques, dewormings can be held to 2-3 times per year even in higher rainfall areas.

How is the taste of Dorper meat?

Superb! Dorper lamb does not have the “lamb taste” that causes so many Americans to avoid eating lamb. It is succulent and fine textured. The purpose of the Dorper breed is to produce prime lamb.

What about crossing a Dorper ram with wool-type ewes?

Early university trials have shown that the Dorper influence will improve the meat qualities and growth rate of lambs from popular commercial ewe breeds. However, the F1 lambs will have a diminished wool conformation.

What about crossing Dorper Rams with hair-type ewes?

The Dorper has been very effective in increasing the growth rate, carcass size and quality of all the typical hair-type breeds such a the Barbados, Katahdin, St. Croix, the Mexican Pelibuey and other breeds that are considered exotic types. Typically, the 75 percent Dorper crosses will exhibit the Dorper coloration and confirmation.

Can percentage Dorpers be registered?

Yes. The Dorper registry regulations allow for a "breeding-up" program. Ewes can be considered purebred at 7/8s ( 87%) and rams at 15/16s ( 93%) Dorper.