# Dairy Sheep Production Systems: Breeds, Milking, and Flock Management ## Key Takeaways - Breed selection is paramount, with specialized dairy breeds like East Friesian and Lacaune offering high milk yield and extended lactation, while milk fat and protein percentages directly influence cheese yield and processing characteristics. - Milking systems require specific vacuum levels (36-42 kPa) and pulsation rates (120-180 cycles/min) to prevent teat damage and mastitis, with immediate cooling to 4°C crucial due to sheep milk's high fat content. - Lactation management involves a typical 120-180 day period, with milk production peaking at 4-6 weeks post-lambing, necessitating early lamb separation and controlled breeding seasons for efficient production. - Flock health is critical, with mastitis (indicated by elevated Somatic Cell Count), Small Ruminant Lentivirus (SRLV), and internal parasites posing significant threats to milk yield and ewe longevity, requiring integrated management and biosecurity. - Comprehensive record-keeping, including individual ewe milk yield, SCC, lambing dates, and health treatments, is essential for genetic improvement, culling decisions, and overall flock performance evaluation. --- Dairy sheep production involves managing ewes for milk intended for human consumption or processing into cheese, yogurt, or other dairy products. This article covers breed selection, milking routines, lactation management, and flock health practices for farmers considering or starting a dairy sheep operation. The information is drawn from official agricultural sources and peer-reviewed research to support informed management decisions. ## At a Glance: Dairy Sheep Production Considerations | Factor | Key Decision Point | Practical Implication | |--------|-------------------|----------------------| | Breed selection | Choose breeds with documented milk yield and composition data | Genetic potential directly affects annual milk output per ewe and milk solids for cheese yield | | Milking system | Parlor or bucket milker designed for sheep | Proper equipment reduces labor and maintains milk quality, sheep milk has high fat content that requires careful handling | | Lactation management | Controlled breeding season and lamb weaning timing | 120 to 180 day lactation typical, milk production peaks at 4 to 6 weeks post-lambing | | Flock health | Monitor for mastitis, lentivirus, and internal parasites | Health problems reduce milk yield and can cause premature culling, biosecurity measures protect the milking herd | | Records | Individual ewe milk yield, [somatic cell](/blog/guides/somatic-cell) count, and lambing dates | Data enables culling decisions and genetic improvement over time | ## Breeds for Dairy Sheep Production ### Specialized Dairy Breeds Several sheep breeds have been selected over generations for milk production traits. The East Friesian is one of the most widely recognized dairy breeds, known for high milk yield and extended lactation length. The Lacaune breed, originating in France, is the primary breed used for Roquefort cheese production and has been subject to genetic improvement programs. The Awassi and Assaf breeds are common in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern systems, valued for their adaptability and milk production under extensive conditions. The Sarda breed from Sardinia, Italy, is another specialized dairy breed with documented production records. Research on genetic polymorphism of sheep milk proteins has shown that breed differences in milk protein composition affect cheese-making properties (Investigating the genetic polymorphism of sheep milk proteins: a useful tool for dairy production, Journal of the science of food and agriculture, 2014, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24862201). Farmers selecting a breed should consider total milk yield and milk fat and protein percentages, as these determine cheese yield and processing characteristics. ### Dual-Purpose and Local Breeds Some farmers use dual-purpose breeds that produce both meat and milk. These breeds generally have lower milk yield than specialized dairy breeds but may be more adapted to local conditions or management systems. The decision to use a dual-purpose breed depends on market prices for meat versus milk, labor availability, and infrastructure for milking. Local or indigenous breeds may have traits such as heat tolerance, parasite resistance, or ability to thrive on low-quality forage. However, their milk production potential is typically lower. A farmer considering local breeds should obtain production records from nearby flocks or research stations before committing to a breeding program. ### Crossbreeding Strategies Crossbreeding dairy breeds with local or dual-purpose ewes can combine high milk production potential with adaptation traits. The resulting crossbred ewes may show heterosis (hybrid vigor) for fertility and survival, though milk yield may be intermediate between the parent breeds. A study on crossbred dairy sheep evaluated rumen-protected methionine supplementation and reported effects on milk production and composition (Evaluation of Rumen-Protected Methionine Supplementation on Milk Production and Composition in Crossbred Dairy Sheep, Animals, 2025, https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15070960). This research indicates that crossbred ewes can respond to nutritional management strategies similar to purebred dairy ewes. Farmers should document the parentage and performance of crossbred ewes to evaluate whether the crossbreeding program meets production goals. Records of milk yield, lactation length, and lamb growth rates help determine the economic value of crossbred replacements. ## Milking Routines and Equipment ### Milking Frequency and Timing Dairy ewes are typically milked once or twice daily. Twice-daily milking at 12-hour intervals generally produces higher total milk yield than once-daily milking, but labor costs are higher. Some farmers use once-daily milking during late lactation or when milk prices are low. The milking routine should be consistent in timing and order to minimize stress on the ewes. Before milking, the udder should be clean and dry. Forestripping (hand-milking the first streams) into a dark-colored cup allows detection of abnormal milk that may indicate mastitis. Teats should be dipped or sprayed with an approved teat disinfectant after milking to reduce the risk of new intramammary infections. ### [Milking Parlor Design](/knowledge/animal-farming/dairy-cattle/designing-efficient-dairy-milking-parlor-udder-health) A milking parlor for sheep should be designed for efficient workflow and ewe comfort. Common designs include herringbone, parallel, or side-by-side parlors with elevated platforms that allow the milker to work at waist height. The number of milking units depends on flock size and labor availability. A single operator can typically handle 8 to 16 milking units per session. The milking machine should have a vacuum level appropriate for sheep, typically 36 to 42 kPa, with a pulsation rate of 120 to 180 cycles per minute and a pulsation ratio of 50:50 or 60:40. Incorrect vacuum or pulsation settings can cause teat damage and increase mastitis risk. The Merck Veterinary Manual provides guidance on milking machine maintenance and mastitis control (Management and Nutrition, Merck Veterinary Manual, https://www.merckvetmanual.com/management-and-nutrition). ### Milk Handling and Cooling Sheep milk has higher fat content than cow or goat milk, typically 6 to 8 percent fat. This high fat content makes the milk prone to cream separation and rancidity if handled improperly. Milk should be filtered immediately after milking and cooled to 4 degrees Celsius within two hours. Bulk tanks or in-line coolers designed for sheep milk are recommended. Milk quality testing should include [somatic cell](/blog/guides/somatic-cell) count (SCC) and [standard plate count](/knowledge/diagnostics/microbiology/calculate-bacteria-standard-plate-count) (SPC). Elevated SCC indicates subclinical mastitis in the flock. Individual ewe SCC records help identify chronic mastitis cases for culling decisions. ## Lactation Management ### Lactation Curve and Peak Yield [Sheep milk production](/knowledge/animal-farming/sheep/sheep-milk-production-breeds-milking-management-and-processing-options) follows a lactation curve similar to dairy cows but with a shorter duration. Milk yield increases after lambing, peaks at 4 to 6 weeks, then gradually declines. Total lactation yield varies by breed, nutrition, and management, ranging from 100 to 500 liters per ewe over a 120 to 180 day lactation. A review of nutritional value and factors affecting milk production and milk composition from dairy sheep identified nutrition as a primary factor influencing lactation performance (Nutritional value and factors affecting milk production and milk composition from dairy sheep: A review, CTU Journal of Innovation and Sustainable Development, 2022, https://doi.org/10.22144/ctu.jen.2022.047). Energy and protein intake during early lactation directly affect peak yield and persistency. ### Lamb Rearing and Weaning In dairy sheep systems, lambs are typically separated from their dams within 24 to 48 hours of birth and reared on milk replacer or foster ewes. Early separation allows the ewe to be milked for human consumption. Some systems allow lambs to nurse for a few weeks before weaning, but this reduces the milk available for sale. The decision on lamb rearing method affects labor requirements, lamb health, and milk income. Lambs raised on milk replacer require clean facilities, proper feeding equipment, and careful monitoring for digestive disorders. Colostrum management is critical: lambs must receive adequate colostrum within the first 6 hours of life for passive immunity transfer. ### Dry Period and Flushing Ewes need a dry period of 6 to 8 weeks before the next lambing to allow udder involution and restore body condition. During the dry period, ewes should be fed a maintenance ration that meets energy and protein requirements without causing excessive weight gain. Flushing (increasing nutrition 2 to 3 weeks before breeding) can improve ovulation rate and lambing percentage. This practice is most effective when ewes are in moderate body condition. Overconditioned ewes may have reduced fertility. ## Flock Health for Milk Production ### Mastitis Control Mastitis is a major cause of milk loss and premature culling in dairy sheep. Clinical mastitis presents as abnormal milk, udder swelling, or systemic signs such as fever. Subclinical mastitis is more common and is detected by elevated SCC or [bacterial culture](/blog/guides/bacterial-culture). Control measures include: - Clean, dry bedding in lambing and milking areas - Proper milking machine function and hygiene - Post-milking teat disinfection - Culling chronic mastitis cases - Treating clinical cases promptly under veterinary guidance The USDA National Agricultural Library provides resources on animal health and welfare that include mastitis management strategies (Animal Health and Welfare, USDA National Agricultural Library, https://www.nal.usda.gov/animal-health-and-welfare). ### Small Ruminant Lentivirus (SRLV) Small ruminant lentivirus infection, including maedi-visna in sheep, can cause progressive pneumonia, arthritis, and mastitis. A study on Latxa dairy sheep found milk production losses associated with SRLV infection (Milk production losses in Latxa dairy sheep associated with small ruminant lentivirus infection, Preventive [Veterinary Medicine](/blog/careers/veterinary-medicine-careers-from-clinical-practice-to-public-health), 2020, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31986356). Infected ewes may have reduced milk yield and higher SCC. Control programs include testing and culling seropositive animals, maintaining closed flocks, and using artificial insemination to reduce disease transmission. Farmers should consult with a veterinarian to develop a testing protocol appropriate for their region and flock size. ### Internal Parasite Management Gastrointestinal nematodes can reduce feed intake, nutrient absorption, and milk production in dairy ewes. Anthelmintic resistance is a growing concern, and reliance on deworming alone is not sustainable. Integrated parasite management includes pasture rotation, mixed grazing with cattle or horses, and selective treatment based on fecal egg counts. A study on French blond-faced Manech dairy sheep found unfavorable genetic correlations between fecal egg count and milk production traits (Unfavorable genetic correlations between fecal egg count and milk production traits in the French blond-faced Manech dairy sheep breed, Genetics, Selection, Evolution, 2022, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35172716). This means that selecting for higher milk production may increase susceptibility to parasites. Farmers should monitor both production and parasite resistance in their breeding program. ### Vaccination and Biosecurity A vaccination program should be developed with veterinary guidance based on local disease risks. Common vaccines for sheep include clostridial diseases, caseous lymphadenitis, and footrot. Biosecurity measures include quarantine of new animals, visitor protocols, and cleaning and disinfection of equipment and facilities. The USDA Agricultural Research Service conducts research on livestock health and disease control (USDA Agricultural Research Service, https://www.ars.usda.gov/). Farmers can access extension publications and research summaries through this agency. ## Records and Measurements ### Individual Ewe Records Accurate records are essential for managing a dairy sheep flock. Each ewe should have a unique identification number (ear tag, electronic ID, or tattoo) and a record that includes: - Breed and birth date - Lambing dates and number of lambs born - Milk yield at each milking or monthly test day - Somatic cell count results - Health treatments and vaccinations - Culling date and reason Records enable identification of high-performing ewes for breeding and low-performing ewes for culling. Genetic improvement programs rely on accurate production data. ### Flock-Level Records Flock-level records include total milk production per day or per month, average SCC, feed consumption, and health events. These records help evaluate overall flock performance and identify management problems. The Natural Resources Conservation Service provides resources on grazing management and forage production that can support dairy sheep operations (USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/). Pasture quality and quantity directly affect milk production in grazing systems. ### Milk Composition Testing Regular milk composition testing (fat, protein, lactose, and SCC) provides information on milk quality and ewe health. Sheep milk composition varies by breed, stage of lactation, and nutrition. High fat and protein content are desirable for cheese production. Genetic studies have identified quantitative trait loci associated with milk production traits and milk protein polymorphisms in dairy sheep (Mapping quantitative trait loci for milk production and genetic polymorphisms of milk proteins in dairy sheep, Genetics Selection Evolution, 2005, https://doi.org/10.1051/gse:2004033). Farmers participating in breed improvement programs can use this information to select sires that improve milk composition. ## Nutrition for Dairy Ewes ### Energy and Protein Requirements Dairy ewes have high energy and protein requirements during lactation. A lactating ewe producing 2 liters of milk per day needs approximately 2.5 to 3.0 kg of dry matter intake with 60 to 65 percent total digestible nutrients and 14 to 16 percent crude protein. Requirements vary by ewe weight, milk yield, and stage of lactation. Forage quality is critical. High-quality legume hay or silage (alfalfa, clover) provides protein and energy. Grain supplementation is often necessary to meet energy demands, especially in early lactation. The ratio of forage to concentrate should be balanced to maintain rumen health and prevent acidosis. ### Mineral and Vitamin Supplementation Calcium and phosphorus requirements increase during lactation. A calcium-to-phosphorus ratio of 1.5:1 to 2:1 is recommended. Magnesium supplementation may be needed to prevent grass tetany in ewes grazing lush pastures. Salt and trace mineral supplements should be provided free-choice. Vitamin E and selenium are important for immune function and mastitis resistance. Selenium deficiency has been associated with retained placenta and poor lamb survival. Farmers should test forage and soil to determine if supplementation is needed. ### Water Availability Clean, fresh water must be available at all times. Lactating ewes consume 4 to 8 liters of water per day, depending on temperature, feed moisture, and milk yield. Water intake directly affects milk production. In hot weather, water consumption increases, and shade should be provided to reduce heat stress. ## Breeding and Reproduction ### Breeding Season and Estrus Synchronization Dairy sheep are seasonal breeders, with estrus occurring in fall and early winter. Some breeds, such as the East Friesian, have a longer breeding season. Estrus synchronization using progestogen sponges or controlled internal drug release (CIDR) devices allows timed artificial insemination and compact lambing periods. A compact lambing period simplifies management, allows batch milking, and ensures uniform lamb groups for sale or rearing. However, synchronization requires handling and veterinary products, and conception rates may vary. ### Artificial Insemination and Genetic Improvement Artificial insemination (AI) allows access to superior sires from breed improvement programs. Semen from proven dairy sires can improve milk yield, udder conformation, and milk composition in the flock. AI requires trained technicians and proper facilities for semen handling and insemination. Genome-wide association studies have identified genetic markers associated with milk production traits in dairy sheep (Genome-wide Association Study of Milk Production Traits in Dairy Meade Sheep, Acta Veterinaria Et Zootechnica Sinica, 2021, https://doi.org/10.11843/j.issn.0366-6964.2021.011.030). These markers can be used in selection programs to accelerate genetic gain. ### Ram Management Rams should be selected based on genetic merit for milk production traits of their daughters. Ram lambs should be separated from ewes at weaning to prevent early breeding. Rams need adequate nutrition and health care to maintain fertility. Breeding soundness examinations before the breeding season can identify subfertile rams. ## Economic Considerations ### Production Costs Dairy sheep production involves costs for feed, labor, veterinary care, breeding, and facilities. Feed is typically the largest expense, accounting for 50 to 70 percent of total costs. Labor costs vary with milking system and flock size. Larger flocks can spread fixed costs over more animals, improving economies of scale. A review of current production trends, farm structures, and economics of the dairy sheep and goat sectors provides information on economic performance across different regions (Invited review: Current production trends, farm structures, and economics of the dairy sheep and goat sectors, Journal of Dairy Science, 2018, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29859690). Farmers should analyze their own costs and returns to determine profitability. ### Milk and Cheese Markets Sheep milk is primarily used for cheese production, with prices varying by region and season. Direct sales of fluid milk are less common due to the high fat content and limited consumer demand. Cheese markets may offer higher returns but require processing facilities and aging capacity. Life cycle assessment of sheep cheese production in a small dairy factory from Romanian rural area examined environmental impacts of cheese production (Life cycle assessment of sheep cheese production in a small dairy factory from Romanian rural area, Environmental Science and Pollution Research International, 2023, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36018408). Farmers considering on-farm processing should evaluate capital costs, regulatory requirements, and market access. ### Environmental Performance Dairy sheep production systems vary in environmental impact depending on input levels and management practices. A study on environmental performances of Sardinian dairy sheep production systems at different input levels found that intensive systems had higher environmental impacts per unit of milk but lower impacts per unit of land (Environmental performances of Sardinian dairy sheep production systems at different input levels, The Science of the Total Environment, 2015, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25265396). Farmers should consider both productivity and environmental sustainability in their management decisions. ## Common Failure Patterns ### Low Milk Yield Low milk yield can result from poor genetics, inadequate nutrition, health problems, or management errors. Farmers should investigate the cause by reviewing records, testing feed quality, and examining ewes for disease. If genetics are the limiting factor, replacing low-producing ewes with higher genetic merit animals may be necessary. ### High Somatic Cell Count Elevated SCC indicates mastitis or udder infection. Causes include poor milking hygiene, malfunctioning milking equipment, environmental contamination, or chronic infection. Farmers should work with a veterinarian to identify the source and implement control measures. Culling chronically infected ewes is often necessary. ### Poor Lamb Survival Lamb mortality reduces the number of replacement ewes and income from lamb sales. Causes include inadequate colostrum, cold stress, starvation, or infectious disease. Management improvements include assisted lambing, colostrum banking, and providing shelter for newborn lambs. ### Reproductive Failure Low lambing rates or extended lambing intervals reduce milk production and profitability. Causes include poor ram fertility, inadequate nutrition, disease, or management errors. Estrus synchronization and AI can improve reproductive efficiency but require proper implementation. ## Welfare and Safety Context ### Ewe Welfare Dairy sheep production requires attention to ewe welfare. Overmilking, improper machine settings, and rough handling can cause udder damage and pain. Ewes should have access to clean, dry bedding, adequate nutrition, and protection from extreme weather. Lameness should be treated promptly. The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations provides resources on animal production and welfare (FAO Animal Production and Health, Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, https://www.fao.org/animal-production/en). Farmers should follow welfare guidelines appropriate for their region and market. ### Worker Safety Milking dairy sheep involves physical labor, repetitive motion, and potential injury from animals or equipment. Workers should be trained in safe animal handling, proper lifting techniques, and equipment operation. Milking parlors should have non-slip flooring and adequate lighting. ### Food Safety Sheep milk for human consumption must meet regulatory standards for bacterial counts, antibiotic residues, and somatic cell counts. Farmers should follow good manufacturing practices for milking, cooling, and storing milk. Antibiotic-treated ewes must be identified and milk withheld for the required withdrawal period. ## Professional Escalation Criteria Farmers should seek professional veterinary assistance when: - Clinical mastitis cases exceed 5 percent of the milking flock in a month - Somatic cell count averages above 500,000 cells/mL for two consecutive months - Unexplained deaths occur in the flock - Reproductive performance (lambing rate) falls below 80 percent - Suspected notifiable disease (such as scrapie or foot-and-mouth disease) is present Nutritional consultation is recommended when: - Milk yield is below breed expectations despite adequate feed - Body condition scores are consistently below 2.5 or above 4.0 (on a 1 to 5 scale) - Feed costs exceed 70 percent of milk income ## Frequently Asked Questions ### What is the average milk yield of a dairy sheep? Milk yield varies by breed, nutrition, and management. Specialized dairy breeds such as East Friesian and Lacaune can produce 200 to 500 liters per lactation, while dual-purpose breeds typically produce 100 to 200 liters. Individual ewe records provide the most accurate information for a specific flock. ### How long is the lactation period for dairy sheep? Lactation typically lasts 120 to 180 days, depending on breed, nutrition, and management. Some dairy breeds can lactate for 200 days or more with proper nutrition and milking frequency. The lactation curve peaks at 4 to 6 weeks after lambing. ### Can I milk sheep once a day instead of twice? Once-daily milking is possible but generally results in lower total milk yield compared to twice-daily milking. Some farmers use once-daily milking in late lactation or when labor is limited. The decision should be based on economic analysis of milk income versus labor costs. ### What is the best breed for dairy sheep production? The best breed depends on your climate, management system, and market. East Friesian and Lacaune are popular specialized dairy breeds with high milk yield. Awassi and Assaf are adapted to hot climates. Local breeds may have advantages in hardiness and disease resistance. Consult with extension specialists and other dairy sheep farmers in your region. ### How do I prevent mastitis in dairy sheep? Mastitis prevention includes clean bedding, proper milking machine function, post-milking teat disinfection, and culling chronic cases. Monitor somatic cell counts and treat clinical cases promptly under veterinary guidance. Good nutrition supports immune function and udder health. ### What is the somatic cell count target for sheep milk? Somatic cell count targets vary by region and market. In general, SCC below 400,000 cells/mL is considered good quality, while SCC above 1,000,000 cells/mL indicates subclinical mastitis. Individual ewe SCC records help identify problem animals for culling. ### How do I start a dairy sheep operation? Start by researching breeds, markets, and regulations in your area. Develop a business plan that includes facility costs, feed sources, labor, and milk processing or sales options. Start with a small flock to gain experience before expanding. Join a dairy sheep association or network with experienced farmers. ### What are the main challenges of dairy [sheep farming](/knowledge/animal-farming/sheep/sheep-farming-flock-nutrition-grazing-lambing-parasite-risk-and-welfare)? Common challenges include mastitis control, parasite management, seasonal breeding, and labor requirements for milking. Market access for sheep milk and cheese can be limited in some regions. Genetic improvement requires accurate records and access to superior sires. Economic viability depends on scale, efficiency, and market prices. ## Related Farming Guides - [Dairy Cow Cooling System Management](/knowledge/animal-farming/dairy-cattle/dairy-cow-cooling-system-management) - [Lentivirus Production](/blog/guides/plaque-assays-planning-controls-and-reporting-viral-titer) - [Systems Biology](/blog/news/systems-biology) - [Sheep Breed Selection For Meat Wool Dairy And Low Input Systems](/knowledge/animal-farming/sheep/sheep-breed-selection-for-meat-wool-dairy-and-low-input-systems) - [Dairy Cattle Farming Nutrition Housing Health Signals And Herd Management](/knowledge/animal-farming/dairy-cattle/dairy-cattle-farming-nutrition-housing-health-signals-and-herd-management) ## Related Clinical & Scientific Guides * [Sheep Grazing Lease: Terms, Rates, and Legal Considerations](/knowledge/animal-farming/sheep/sheep-grazing-lease-terms-rates-and-legal-considerations) * [Sheep Breed Selection for Meat, Wool, Dairy, and Low-Input Systems](/knowledge/animal-farming/sheep/sheep-breed-selection-for-meat-wool-dairy-and-low-input-systems) * [Sheep Barn Flooring for Hoof Health: Best Materials and Practices](/knowledge/animal-farming/sheep/sheep-barn-flooring-hoof-health-materials-practices) ## References and Further Reading - [www.ars.usda.gov](https://www.ars.usda.gov/) - [www.nrcs.usda.gov](https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/) - [www.merckvetmanual.com](https://www.merckvetmanual.com/management-and-nutrition) - [FAO Animal Production and Health](https://www.fao.org/animal-production/en). Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. - [Animal Health and Welfare](https://www.nal.usda.gov/animal-health-and-welfare). USDA National Agricultural Library. - [Invited review: Current production trends, farm structures, and economics of the dairy sheep and goat sectors.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29859690). Journal of dairy science, 2018. - [Milk production losses in Latxa dairy sheep associated with small ruminant lentivirus infection.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31986356). Preventive veterinary medicine, 2020. - [Investigating the genetic polymorphism of sheep milk proteins: a useful tool for dairy production.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24862201). Journal of the science of food and agriculture, 2014. - [Life cycle assessment of sheep cheese production in a small dairy factory from Romanian rural area.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36018408). Environmental science and pollution research international, 2023. - [Environmental performances of Sardinian dairy sheep production systems at different input levels.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25265396). The Science of the total environment, 2015. - [Unfavorable genetic correlations between fecal egg count and milk production traits in the French blond-faced Manech dairy sheep breed.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35172716). Genetics, selection, evolution : GSE, 2022. - [Application of selection mapping to identify genomic regions associated with dairy production in sheep](https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0094623). Plos One, 2014. - [Evaluation of Rumen-Protected Methionine Supplementation on Milk Production and Composition in Crossbred Dairy Sheep](https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15070960). Animals, 2025. - [Nutritional value and factors affecting milk production and milk composition from dairy sheep: A review](https://doi.org/10.22144/ctu.jen.2022.047). Ctu Journal of Innovation and Sustainable Development, 2022. - [Mapping quantitative trait loci for milk production and genetic polymorphisms of milk proteins in dairy sheep](https://doi.org/10.1051/gse:2004033). Genetics Selection Evolution, 2005. - [Genome-wide Association Study of Milk Production Traits in Dairy Meade Sheep](https://doi.org/10.11843/j.issn.0366-6964.2021.011.030). Acta Veterinaria Et Zootechnica Sinica, 2021. > This article is educational and is not a substitute for veterinary diagnosis, treatment, public-health guidance, or regulatory reporting.