Where to Buy Sheep? | OSU Sheep Team

Eastern Alliance for Production Katahdins (EAPK) Communications Committee
(Previously published online with EAPK: June 23, 2023)

We often get asked “Where’s the best place to buy sheep?” A lot depends on your goals and what you’ll use the sheep for, but one thing is pretty much certain: Don’t buy sheep from the local sale barn. Below are some of the more common sale venues with some of the pros and cons listed.

Venue	Pros	Cons
On Farm	Often lowest cost option Least chance of biosecurity issues Least stress for animals Ability to inspect the whole flock and observe management Potentially more choices of one farm’s genetics May allow better opportunity to develop relationship with seller, especially important if looking for a mentor More flexibility on sale dates	Limited to only that farm’s genetics Location (potentially) If out-of-state, veterinary transport certificate may require additional time/expense Seller may require cash-only payment
In-Person Breed Auctions	Wider range of options and genetics available in one location Ability to physically examine and compare animals Consigners usually bring their best to sell Seller usually available on site to answer questions Animals sell quickly by sale order On-site veterinarian for transport certificates Most forms of payment typically accepted	Mingling with other animals at sale increases biosecurity risks Additional stress for animal (transport to sale; sale itself) Competitive pricing Consecutive bidding means you can’t go back and bid on an earlier animal if you get outbid later in the sale
Online Auctions	Potentially wider range of options and genetics Consigners usually offer their best to sell Simultaneous bidding allows you to bid on other animals if outbid on first choice Length of sale allows time to plan bidding	Competitive pricing Electronic payment usually preferred Unable to handle or visually inspect animal Seller may be difficult to reach for questions
Combination Auction – online auction with animals available in one location for inspection	Wider range of options and genetics Ability to physically examine and compare animals Consigners usually offer their best to sell Simultaneous bidding allows you to bid on other animals if outbid on first choice Length of sale allows time to plan bidding Sellers usually available onsite to answer questions On-site veterinarian available to provide transport certificates for animals located on-site	Mingling with other animals at sale increases biosecurity risks Additional stress for animal (transport to sale; sale itself) Competitive pricing If buyer not in attendance or animal not on-site, must arrange transport Acceptable forms of payment vary by sale

Regardless of where you choose to purchase sheep, keep in mind the basics. First identify your goals for your flock and farm, and develop a plan to reach those goals. Set a budget (and stick to it). Identify what specific traits you want to improve and/or downplay. Do your research – talk to the breeders, understand how their sheep are managed and their goals for their flock. Study individual animals offered for sale and remember there is no perfect animal.