Sheep - Gentle ruminants with strong cohesion
Species-appropriate husbandry – How to make them feel comfortable
Strength in numbers
Sheep are not solitary animals. Keeping them in groups is mandatory – the more diverse the flock, the more balanced the coexistence.
Room to roam and ruminate
For two animals, a minimum of 8 m² of movement space is required: 2 m² of which should be in the stable and 6 m² in the outdoor enclosure. Additionally, a pasture area of at least 1,500 m² for 3–5 animals – ideally with dry ground, securely fenced, and with natural substrate.
Comfortable Stable & Outdoor Shelter
A bright, well-bedded stable with resting zones offers security – as does a covered shelter in the pasture for protection from sun, rain, and wind.
Natural Grooming
Posts or brushes help sheep groom their fleece and relieve itching – an important activity and a contribution to skin health.
Cleanliness & Hygiene
🧼 Weekly change
💦 Fresh water
Freshness Every Day
Feces and urine spots must be removed daily. This ensures a healthy stable climate and protects the animals from diseases.
Thorough Stable Cleaning
The bedding should be completely replaced once a week. With many animals or in wet weather, more frequent cleaning may be advisable.
Clean Water Sources
Fresh drinking water must be available at all times. Clean troughs are important for health and prevent infections.
Nutrition
🌾 Hay & roughage
🧂 Minerals
Sheep are continuous eaters and spend many hours feeding. In addition to fresh grass, they require high-quality hay or other structured forage. Mineral feed is also part of their basic supply – and fresh drinking water must be accessible at all times.
Grass as a Foundation
Sheep are continuous eaters. The basis of their diet is fresh greenery, which provides them with energy and fiber.
Forage as Supplement
High-quality hay or other structured forage is essential for healthy digestion. It is particularly indispensable in winter.
Minerals are Important
Mineral feed and salt licks are part of their basic supply. They promote vitality and support metabolism.
Nutrition
Activity
👥 Social cohesion
✨ New incentives
Sheep enjoy being active – calm grazing, targeted nibbling, small hierarchy games, or shared rest periods are part of their daily routine. Changing pasture areas, tree trunks, or elevated resting platforms add variety to their day.
Natural Activity
Calm grazing, nibbling, and small hierarchy games are part of their daily routine. Exercise keeps the animals fit.
Strong Together
Sheep are herd animals. The strong cohesion within the herd provides them with security and ensures balance.
Variety in Daily Life
Changing pasture areas, tree trunks, and elevated resting platforms provide variety and promote well-being.