"Production Dorset" is a term used to describe the working, lamb-producing Dorset as opposed to the modern show-type Dorset. Dorsets found in the show ring are typically much taller and lighter bodied than the original Dorsets. Indeed, this change didn't start happening till sometime in the mid-1970's.

There is a great deal of speculation on how and why this change occurred, but many feel that it is not to the benefit of the breed or the shepherd who runs them in a production flock. The official Dorset history book, entitled "History of the Continental Dorset Club and Dorset Sheep", clearly shows several trends in the Dorset breed, including the current show style that has dominated the show ring for over 20 years.

To subscribe to an informative listserv comprised of people who value productive sheep in general and production-style Dorsets in particular, please send an email to ProdDorsetBreeders-subscribe@yahoogroups.com. A list moderator will contact you personally or send you an automated greeting welcoming you to the listserv.

For more information on this listserv, please go to:

http://pets.groups.yahoo.com/group/ProdDorsetBreeders/

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