How To Raise Sheep - 5 Things You Need To Consider When Planning For Sheep Housing

Though it's easy to overlook the importance of having the proper sheep housing for your herd, this is actually one of the more crucial factors that you'll need to deal with when taking proper care of sheep. Sure simple shelters may seem adequate enough for those living in areas with mild temperature, but if you're located in areas that are prone to harsh weather conditions, then you might have to look for more elaborate structures to house your sheep in. if you want to be able to construct the perfect sheep housing environment for your herd, here are 5 things that you need to know when planning it all out.

1) Space requirement

First off, you need to determine the amount of space you have when planning out sheep housing. Since sheep respond well to open areas, you need to ensure that your herd has enough space to move freely and roam around. If you cramp them into a small space, it will make them more susceptible to sharing diseases.

2) Type of housing

Next, you need to decide on the kind of housing you'll be providing for your sheep. Sheep housing can range from a simple hut to a modern barn so depending on your budget and the climate you have in your area, you should decide on what you think would be the most appropriate for your herd.

3) Ventilation

If you'll be housing your sheep in closed confines, you need to make ventilation your top priority. This way, your sheep will be able to have access to fresh air even if they're confined within walls.

4) Bedding

Since bedding can provide warmth and comfort to your sheep, the type of material you choose to use is an important decision you need to make. Whether you choose hay, straw, pine shavings or even wood chips, make sure to go through the advantages and disadvantages of each so that you can choose the most appropriate material for your breed.

5) Sheep habits

Last but not the least, you should also consider your sheep's innate habits when choosing the most appropriate housing for it. Since different breeds have different qualities that you need to keep in mind, you should choose housing that is perfect for the breed that you're planning on keeping. So whether your breed likes to flock together or prefers to graze and forage separately, you should choose sheep housing that you feel would suit their habits the most. This is the only way that you'll be able to raise healthy happy sheep.