Is it okay for a grown man to play with Babydolls?
Babydoll Southdown sheep, also known as Olde English Southdown sheep, are a small, gentle breed known for their friendly demeanor and adorable “teddy bear” faces. They are a heritage breed and one of the oldest English sheep breeds, originating in the South Downs of England dating back to the 1700’s.
In the early 1800s, they were imported to the United States and the original Olde English South Downs were crossbred with other, larger breeds to become bigger and more profitable (known as just “Southdowns” today). The original pure bloodline nearly went extinct at one point, with just 350 sheep accounted for in the late 1980s and early 1990s.
Saved from extinction:
John Ellman worked to preserve and standardize the original breed. After they were rediscovered and saved from extinction, they were classified as ‘miniature’ and named ‘Babydoll.’ This was to prevent confusion in the livestock industry with their larger relatives.
Babydoll Southdown Sheep are relatively easy to care for. They are a small stature breed with short snouts and wool covering most of their bodies, including their faces. Because of their smaller size and docile temperament, Babydoll Sheep are popular with smaller farms and hobby farms. They are great for families and those new to sheep. They are also natural grazers and can help control weeds in gardens, orchards, and vineyards. They are sweet and adorable and will supply you with wool, lawn mowing, pruning and replenishing nitrogen into your soil.
If you decide you want to “play with Babydolls”, make sure that you get them from a reputable breeder. Our sheep are dual registered with the North American Babydoll Southdown Sheep Association & Registry and the Olde English “Babydoll” Southdown Sheep Registry.
Galahad
Galahad is 4 years old and the perfect ram for our farmstead! The kids have a hard time with his name, so we just call him Rudy! When Rudy first came here with his young friend, Lily, he was all protector. He refused to let us get close to him and when we tried, he would stomp his feet and “ram” toward us. Babydoll sheep stomp their front feet to signal danger to the rest of the flock. His ramming gestor wasn’t intended to actually harm me (he never got that close) but rather, he was warning me away. Of course, it didn’t take long for him to realize that I’m his shepherd and not a danger at all. Just like our Heavenly Shephard, my job is protector and provider and Rudy softened up quickly. Now he runs to us and loves having his head and back rubbed. By the way, his legs aren’t really as short as they appear. He is just due to be shorn in this picture! We love you Rudy!
Lily
Lily is almost a year and a half old and such a cute little girl (ewe). When we got her she was just six months old and quite small… even for a Babydoll Lamb. Like all little ones she liked to run around and was very playful. In fact, she still is. We had her in a separate stall than Rudy and intended to wait until she was over a year old to put them together, but apparently Rudy had other ideas. One morning we came out and discovered that he had managed to get through the fence. We were worried at first but I guess she was ready! Several months later April was born (in April – hence the name). Lily is a sweet girl and a wonderful mom. I can’t wait to meet more of her little lambs!
Little April
April was born right here on Buffalo Acres in April 2025. I find it totally amazing that these small creatures can be born and up and walking within hours. We fell in love with her the moment she took her first breath. April looks so small and delicate… almost unreal. Like a Babydoll!
Just look how much she’s grown in a few short months. When she’s hungry she lets out the cutest “Bahhhh” to remind us that it’s feeding time. I believe her coat is the softest, fluffiest thing I’ve ever felt. And boy does she have a personality. I simply love cuddling with her early in the morning when I go out to say hi.
April with mom, Lily.
Miniature Zebu Cattle