Dalesbred Breed Standard

People at a Dalesbred sheep show, with a man kneeling next to a sheep and a woman inspecting the Dalesbred sheep's head, while others look on in the background.
A girl kneeling on grass at a livestock show, holding two black-faced Dalesbred sheep with curly wool and curved horns. Other people and Dalesbred sheep are visible in the background.
A young boy kneeling on one knee holding a silver trophy in his left hand and a red, white, and blue breed champion ribbon in his right hand, standing next to a sheep. The sheep has a dark face with white markings and a thick brown wool coat. A woman crouches beside the sheep, holding its head with her left hand and a ribbon in her right hand. The background shows people behind a white fence at an outdoor event, likely a livestock show or fair.

DALESBRED BREED STANDARD

The Dalesbred is a distinctive and hardy hill breed originating from the Yorkshire Dales and Pennine uplands. Known for its strength, durability, and characteristic black-and-white facial markings, the breed combines traditional hill sheep qualities with striking conformation.

  • Head

    The head should be well developed, displaying a deep lower jaw, large open nostrils, and a strong, balanced structure.
    Markings include:

    • A solid black upper face

    • A small, neat white patch on each side of the nose

    • A clear white muzzle

    Teeth should be broad and well aligned, demonstrating good grazing ability.

  • Horns

    Horns should be:

    • Low set

    • Curling away from the head

    • Symmetrical and well shaped

    Horns are an important breed characteristic and should not obstruct vision or growth.

  • Ears

    Ears are carried neatly and show characteristic black-and-white colouring, consistent with traditional Dalesbred markings.

  • Legs

    Legs should be:

    • Strong, straight, and well boned

    • Distinctly marked in black and white

    • Free-moving, with quality of bone that enables a true, sound walking action

    Correct legs are essential for thriving on hill terrain.

  • Carcass

    A Dalesbred should carry a long, drawn-out carcass with well-developed, square hindquarters.
    The body should appear balanced and strong, reflecting the breed’s ability to produce quality lambs and hardy replacements.

  • Wool

    Fleece should be:

    • Deep and of good quality

    • Free from black fibres

    • Evenly grown and consistent across the body

    A correct fleece contributes to both durability and commercial value.

  • Points Allocation (for Judging)

    • Head and Horns (including teeth): 20

    • Legs: 15

    • Tail: 5

    • Carcass: 30

    • Wool: 20

    • General bearing / overall impression: 10
      Total: 100 points

The Dalesbred Sheep Breeders’ Association is committed to preserving the integrity and future of the breed by upholding strict breed standards, promoting responsible breeding, and supporting hill farmers throughout the Dales and Pennines.

The Role of the Dalesbred Society

Through flock books, inspections, shows, and breeder support, the Society works to maintain the quality, health, and characteristics of the Dalesbred, ensuring the breed continues to thrive for generations to come.

A person kneeling on grass holding a Dalesbred sheep's head, which has black and white markings and large curled horns, in an outdoor setting with trees and rocks in the background.