Valais Blacknose Sheep

Looks how to spot one

Long wool

The Valais Blacknose has a thick, fluffy white fleece that grows quickly, about 30 cm per year. The wool is coarse, with a micron of around 28 to 30 in lambs and about 38 in mature sheep. The face, ears, knees, hocks and feet are black, and both sexes have spiral-shaped horns.25

Personality what they are like

Valais Blacknose sheep are calm, docile and inquisitive. They are known for behaving more like friendly dogs than typical sheep, and they enjoy human company. They are also described as having a sweet, curious disposition.267

Daily activity how busy a day looks

They need plenty of grazing land, with a typical stocking density of 6 to 10 sheep per acre on productive grass. They are active grazers, feeding in the early morning and evening, and need space to roam.63

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

They require shearing twice a year because their wool grows fast, about 30 cm per year. Regular hoof care is essential, as they are prone to foot problems like scald and footrot, especially in damp conditions. Check hooves every 4 to 6 weeks and trim when needed. They also need protection from flies and regular worming.56

Home where they are happiest

They need shelter or access to sheds, especially during hot summer weather and wet storms. They are sensitive to high temperatures, so shade is important. Fresh water must always be available. They are hardy mountain sheep but adapt well to various environments.532

Food basics what goes in the bowl

They are grazers and thrive on good quality pasture. In winter, provide good quality hay. A quality vitamin lick for sheep should always be available. If supplementing, good quality sheep nuts at about 0.5 to 0.75 kg per sheep per day is a general guide, but avoid feeding ewe nuts to rams.6

Company who they like around

They are social animals and should be kept with other sheep. They are friendly and enjoy human interaction, but they are still livestock and need proper care and attention. They are not suitable as indoor pets.64

The story where it all began

The Valais Blacknose sheep comes from the Upper Valais region of Switzerland, where it has been mentioned since the 15th century. It was bred for the harsh mountain climate and is known for its resilience and adaptability. The breed was officially registered in 1962 and included in the Swiss Sheep Breeders Association in 1964. Historically, it was used for both meat and coarse carpet-grade wool. In recent years, it has gained popularity worldwide as a pet due to its cute appearance and friendly nature.823

Recognised by the official bits

Swiss Sheep Breeders Association

Registered as a breed in 1962, included in the association in 19642

Popularity Increasingly popular as pets, especially in Australia, New Zealand, and the US.4