# Sheep Milking Machine: Selection, Setup, and Hygiene for Dairy Sheep ## Key Takeaways - Optimal vacuum levels for sheep milking machines range from 36 to 42 kPa (10.6-12.4 inHg) to prevent teat damage and ensure complete milkout; vacuum stability, with fluctuations less than 2 kPa, is critical for udder health and milk ejection. - Pulsation rates for sheep should be between 120-180 cycles per minute with a 50:50 or 60:40 ratio, favoring a square-wave pattern to promote teat tissue health and efficient milking. - Pipeline systems require rigorous Clean-in-Place (CIP) protocols involving hot detergent washes (60-70°C) and acid rinses, with weekly swabbing and bacterial culture of milk contact surfaces to ensure sanitation. - Bucket and mobile milking units necessitate manual disassembly and cleaning after each use, with critical attention to weekly inspection and timely replacement of teat cup liners (every 1,500-2,000 milkings or 6 months) to prevent bacterial harborage and teat injury. - Mastitis prevention and monitoring are paramount, involving forestripping milk for visual inspection, consistent post-milking teat dipping, and regular somatic cell count (SCC) testing, with veterinary consultation advised if SCC exceeds 500,000 cells/mL for two consecutive tests. - Milking parlor design, including platform height (60-80 cm) and holding pen dimensions (0.5-0.7 m²/ewe), directly impacts ewe welfare and milking efficiency, with non-slip flooring and calm handling crucial to minimize stress and cortisol-induced milk letdown inhibition. --- Dairy sheep farmers evaluating milking equipment for small to medium flocks must match machine type to flock size, facility layout, and labor availability while maintaining vacuum levels, pulsation rates, and cleaning protocols that protect udder health and milk quality. This article compares bucket milkers, pipeline systems, and mobile units, providing concrete selection criteria, setup parameters, and hygiene procedures drawn from peer-reviewed research and official agricultural guidance. ## At a Glance: Milking System Comparison | Feature | Bucket Milker | Pipeline System | Mobile Unit | |---------|---------------|-----------------|-------------| | Typical flock size | 10-80 ewes | 80-400+ ewes | 20-150 ewes | | Initial investment | Low to moderate | High | Moderate | | Portability | High (carry to pen) | Fixed installation | High (towed between sites) | | Milk handling | Manual transfer to bulk tank | Direct to bulk tank | Manual or pump transfer | | Cleaning complexity | Simple (disassemble and wash) | Complex (CIP required) | Moderate | | Vacuum source | Single portable pump | Central vacuum pump | Engine-driven or PTO pump | | Best suited for | Small flocks, seasonal dairies, beginners | Established medium to large dairies | Rotational grazing, multiple farm sites | ## Milking System Types and Selection Criteria ### Bucket Milkers for Small Flocks Bucket milkers consist of a vacuum pump, pulsator, claw, teat cups, and a collection bucket. The farmer carries the unit to each ewe or moves ewes to a stationary bucket station. These systems suit flocks under 80 ewes where capital is limited or where the farmer milks once daily during a short lactation season. The primary advantage is simplicity. Fewer components mean fewer failure points and easier cleaning. The farmer can inspect milk from each ewe visually as it enters the bucket, aiding early mastitis detection. The tradeoff is labor intensity: each ewe requires individual cluster attachment and removal, and the farmer must manually pour milk into a bulk tank or churn. When selecting a bucket milker, verify that the vacuum pump delivers consistent vacuum levels appropriate for sheep. Sheep udders differ anatomically from cow udders, and research on machine milking of Ostfriesian and Lacaune dairy sheep has documented differences in udder anatomy, milk ejection, and milking characteristics that affect machine design requirements [7]. Bucket milkers designed for cows may operate at vacuum levels too high for sheep, increasing the risk of teat damage and incomplete milking. ### Pipeline Systems for Medium Flocks Pipeline systems use a fixed vacuum line running through the milking parlor, with milk traveling directly from the claw through stainless steel or food-grade plastic pipes to a bulk tank. These systems suit flocks of 80 to 400 or more ewes where the farmer milks twice daily and labor efficiency matters. Pipeline systems reduce handling time because the farmer does not carry buckets or pour milk. The milk cools immediately in the bulk tank, preserving quality. However, installation costs are higher, and cleaning requires a clean-in-place (CIP) system that circulates detergent and sanitizer through the entire pipeline. Pipeline height affects milking efficiency and milk quality. Research on the effect of milking pipeline height on machine milking efficiency and milk quality in sheep found that pipeline elevation influences vacuum stability at the teat end and the fat content of the harvested milk [9]. When installing a pipeline system, follow manufacturer specifications for pipe diameter, slope, and elevation relative to the milking platform. ### Mobile Milking Units for Rotational Systems Mobile milking units mount on trailers or skids and include a vacuum pump, pulsator, claw, and collection tank. These units suit farmers who graze sheep on multiple paddocks or who operate seasonal dairies where a permanent parlor is impractical. Mobile units offer flexibility. The farmer can position the unit near the grazing flock, reducing walking distance for ewes. Some units include solar panels or battery systems for off-grid operation. The tradeoff is that mobile units typically have smaller collection tanks and may require more frequent milk pickup. When evaluating mobile units, consider the vacuum pump power source. Engine-driven pumps require fuel and maintenance. Power take-off (PTO) pumps require a tractor. Electric pumps require a generator or grid connection. The FAO Animal Production and Health division provides guidance on appropriate technology for small-scale dairy operations, including mobile milking systems [4]. ## Vacuum Levels and Pulsation Settings ### Vacuum Level Selection Sheep require lower vacuum levels than cows. Standard vacuum levels for sheep milking machines range from 36 to 42 kPa (kilopascals), equivalent to 10.6 to 12.4 inches of mercury. Higher vacuum levels can cause teat congestion, pain, and incomplete milkout. Lower vacuum levels may cause cluster slippage and slow milking. The vacuum level must remain stable throughout milking. Fluctuations caused by undersized vacuum pumps, leaking lines, or excessive air admission at the claw can disrupt milk ejection. Research on machine-milking practices, animal welfare-related reactions, and milk quality in dairy sheep farms has examined how vacuum stability affects both ewe behavior and milk composition [6]. Measure vacuum at the teat end using a vacuum gauge placed in the short milk tube. Adjust the vacuum regulator to maintain the target level while all clusters are operating. Check vacuum stability during peak milk flow, when the most air enters the system. ### Pulsation Rate and Ratio Pulsation rate refers to the number of pulsation cycles per minute. For sheep, typical pulsation rates range from 120 to 180 cycles per minute. Pulsation ratio describes the proportion of each cycle spent in the massage phase versus the milking phase. Common ratios for sheep are 50:50 or 60:40, with the massage phase occupying at least half the cycle. The pulsation curve shape matters. Research on the influence of milking units on the pulsation curve in dairy sheep milking has shown that different cluster designs produce different pulsation waveforms, affecting teat tissue health and milking speed [11]. A square-wave pulsation pattern, where the vacuum changes rapidly between milking and massage phases, is generally preferred for sheep. Test pulsation function weekly using a pulsation analyzer. Record the rate, ratio, and waveform for each cluster. Replace worn pulsator diaphragms or solenoids when the waveform deviates from the manufacturer specification. ### Air Inlet Teat Cup Design Some sheep milking machines use teat cups with controlled air inlets that admit small amounts of air at the teat end. This design helps lift milk from the short milk tube and reduces the vacuum load on the teat. Laboratory tests to optimize milking machine settings with air inlet teat cups for sheep and goats have examined how air inlet size and position affect milking performance and teat condition [13]. If using air inlet teat cups, follow the manufacturer's recommended air inlet diameter. Too large an inlet reduces vacuum at the teat and slows milking. Too small an inlet increases vacuum and may cause teat end damage. ## Milking Parlor Layout and Ewe Flow ### Parlor Types for Sheep Sheep milking parlors typically use one of three layouts: side-by-side, tandem, or herringbone. Side-by-side parlors place ewes parallel to the milking pit, with the milker working between their rear legs. Tandem parlors place ewes in individual stalls arranged in a line. Herringbone parlors angle ewes at 30 to 45 degrees to the pit, allowing the milker to access multiple ewes from one position. For small to medium flocks, a side-by-side parlor with two to six stalls is common. This layout allows the farmer to see all ewes clearly and to move quickly between animals. The parlor should include a holding pen where ewes wait before milking, with non-slip flooring and adequate ventilation. Ewe entry order into the parlor affects milking efficiency. Research on the order of sheep entry into the milking parlor and its relationship with their milkability has found that ewes that enter early tend to have higher milk flow rates and shorter milking times [16]. Farmers can use this information to group ewes by milking speed, placing slower milkers at the end of the milking order. ### Holding Pen and Crowd Gate Design The holding pen should provide enough space for all ewes in the milking group to stand comfortably. Allow 0.5 to 0.7 square meters per ewe. The pen should have a non-slip floor, preferably rubber matting or textured concrete, to prevent falls. A crowd gate at the rear of the holding pen encourages ewes to move toward the parlor entrance. The gate should move slowly and quietly to avoid frightening the animals. Research on the assessment of fear susceptibility during machine milking in dairy sheep of different ages and temperament has examined how handling practices affect ewe stress responses in the milking environment [12]. Sudden movements or loud noises in the holding pen can elevate stress hormones and inhibit milk ejection. ### Milking Platform Height The milking platform should position the ewe's udder at a comfortable working height for the milker. Typical platform heights range from 60 to 80 centimeters above the milker's floor level. The platform should include a slight slope toward the rear to allow milk and wash water to drain away from the ewe. If using a pipeline system, the pipeline height relative to the platform affects vacuum stability. Research on the effect of milking pipeline height on machine milking efficiency and milk quality in sheep has documented that excessive pipeline elevation increases the vacuum required to lift milk, potentially causing vacuum fluctuations at the teat [9]. Follow the manufacturer's recommended maximum vertical distance from the teat to the pipeline. ## Milking Routine and Cluster Attachment ### Pre-Milking Preparation Prepare ewes for milking by bringing them calmly from the holding pen to the parlor. Allow 30 to 60 seconds for the ewe to settle in the stall before attaching the cluster. During this time, inspect the udder and teats for abnormalities: swelling, redness, heat, wounds, or visible milk clots. Forestripping, or expressing the first streams of milk by hand, serves two purposes. It removes milk with the highest bacterial count, and it allows the farmer to detect abnormal milk that may indicate subclinical mastitis. Collect forestripped milk in a dark-colored cup for visual inspection. Do not allow forestripped milk to fall on the bedding or floor, as this can spread mastitis pathogens. Some farmers use a pre-milking teat dip or spray containing an approved disinfectant. Allow 30 seconds of contact time before wiping the teats dry with a single-use paper towel. Do not use a shared cloth towel, as this can transfer bacteria between ewes. ### Cluster Attachment and Positioning Attach the cluster within 60 to 90 seconds of entering the stall. Hold the claw at a slight angle so that the teat cups hang straight down from the teats. Attach each teat cup by grasping the short milk tube near the teat cup shell and guiding the cup onto the teat. Avoid pushing the cup upward, as this can force air into the udder. The cluster should hang freely without pulling on the teats. If the cluster is too heavy, it may cause the teat cups to slip or the ewe to kick. Some clusters include a support arm or cord that takes the weight off the teats. After attachment, check that all four teat cups are positioned correctly. The teat should be centered in the teat cup liner, with the liner collapsing fully during the massage phase. Misaligned teat cups can cause liner slip, which introduces air into the system and may cause vacuum fluctuations. ### Milking Duration and Cluster Removal Milking duration for sheep typically ranges from 60 to 180 seconds, depending on the ewe's milk yield, stage of lactation, and the machine settings. Overmilking, or leaving the cluster attached after milk flow stops, can cause teat end damage and increase the risk of mastitis. Use automatic cluster removers (ACRs) if available. ACRs detect when milk flow drops below a preset threshold and remove the cluster gently. Research on milking routines and cluster detachment levels in small ruminants has reviewed the effects of different detachment settings on udder health and milk yield [10]. If using manual removal, detach the cluster as soon as milk flow visibly stops. To remove the cluster manually, shut off the vacuum at the claw or short milk tube, then lift the cluster straight down. Do not pull the cluster sideways, as this can damage the teat sphincter. After removal, apply a post-milking teat dip or spray containing an approved disinfectant. ## Cleaning and Sanitation Protocols ### Clean-in-Place (CIP) Systems for Pipeline Installations Pipeline systems require a CIP system that circulates cleaning solutions through the entire milk contact surface. A typical CIP cycle includes a warm water pre-rinse, a detergent wash at 60 to 70 degrees Celsius, a fresh water rinse, an acid rinse to remove mineral deposits, and a sanitizing rinse immediately before the next milking. The detergent wash should circulate for at least 5 to 10 minutes at the recommended concentration. Use a detergent formulated for dairy equipment that contains chlorinated alkaline compounds to dissolve milk fat and protein. The acid rinse should circulate weekly or as needed based on water hardness. Test the CIP system weekly by swabbing milk contact surfaces and sending samples to a laboratory for [bacterial culture](/blog/guides/bacterial-culture). Record the results and adjust cleaning procedures if counts exceed acceptable limits. The USDA National Agricultural Library provides resources on animal health and welfare that include best practices for milking equipment sanitation [5]. ### Manual Cleaning for Bucket and Mobile Units Bucket milkers and mobile units require disassembly and manual cleaning after each milking. Rinse all milk contact surfaces with cool water immediately after use to remove residual milk. Wash with hot detergent water using a brush designed for dairy equipment. Rinse with clean water and allow to air dry on a clean rack. Inspect teat cup liners weekly for cracks, hardening, or discoloration. Replace liners according to the manufacturer's schedule, typically every 1,500 to 2,000 milkings or every 6 months, whichever comes first. Worn liners can harbor bacteria and cause teat damage. Sanitize all milk contact surfaces immediately before the next milking using an approved dairy sanitizer. Follow the label instructions for concentration and contact time. Do not rinse after sanitizing unless the product label requires it. ### Water Quality and Temperature Water used for cleaning must be potable and free of contaminants that could affect milk quality. Test water annually for total bacterial count, coliforms, and mineral content. Hard water requires more detergent and more frequent acid rinses. Water temperature matters. The pre-rinse should be warm, 35 to 40 degrees Celsius, to remove milk residues without causing protein adhesion. The detergent wash should be hot, 60 to 70 degrees Celsius, to dissolve fats and kill vegetative bacteria. Water hotter than 75 degrees Celsius can cause protein to bake onto surfaces. ## Records and Measurements ### Milking Records Maintain daily records for each milking session. Record the date, time, number of ewes milked, total milk volume, and any abnormalities observed. For individual ewes, record milk yield at least weekly using a weigh jar or flow meter. Individual yield records help identify ewes with declining production that may indicate health problems. They also support culling decisions for low-producing animals. The USDA Agricultural Research Service provides resources on [dairy sheep production](/knowledge/animal-farming/sheep/dairy-sheep-production-systems-breeds-milking-and-flock-management) that include record-keeping templates [1]. ### Vacuum and Pulsation Records Record vacuum level and pulsation settings weekly. Use a vacuum gauge and pulsation analyzer to measure: - Vacuum level at the teat end (target: 36-42 kPa) - Vacuum stability during milking (fluctuations less than 2 kPa) - Pulsation rate (target: 120-180 cycles per minute) - Pulsation ratio (target: 50:50 or 60:40) - Pulsation waveform (square wave preferred) Record any adjustments made to the vacuum regulator or pulsator. If vacuum or pulsation parameters drift outside the target range, investigate the cause before the next milking. ### Mastitis Monitoring Records Record clinical mastitis cases by ewe identification number, date, affected gland, and treatment administered. Track the number of cases per month and the pathogens isolated from milk cultures. Subclinical mastitis monitoring requires regular testing. Use the California Mastitis Test (CMT) or [somatic cell](/blog/guides/somatic-cell) count (SCC) testing at least monthly. Research on mastitis of dairy small ruminants has described the major pathogens affecting sheep and the diagnostic methods used to detect them [8]. Record CMT scores or SCC results for each ewe and identify animals with persistently elevated counts. ## Common Failure Patterns and Troubleshooting ### Vacuum Fluctuations Vacuum fluctuations during milking can cause cluster slippage, incomplete milking, and teat damage. Common causes include: - Undersized vacuum pump for the number of clusters - Leaking vacuum lines or fittings - Worn or cracked teat cup liners - Excessive air admission at the claw - Blocked vacuum regulator To diagnose vacuum fluctuations, observe the vacuum gauge during milking. If the needle fluctuates more than 2 kPa, check each component systematically. Start with the vacuum regulator, then inspect lines for leaks, then check the claw and teat cups. ### Slow Milking Slow milking increases labor time and may indicate problems with the machine or the ewe. Machine-related causes include: - Vacuum level too low - Pulsation rate or ratio incorrect - Worn teat cup liners that do not collapse fully - Blocked short milk tubes or claw Ewe-related causes include: - Incomplete milk ejection due to stress or pain - Teat or udder abnormalities - Mastitis or subclinical infection If slow milking affects multiple ewes, check machine settings first. If it affects individual ewes, examine the ewe for health problems. ### Teat End Damage Teat end damage appears as redness, swelling, cracks, or sores at the teat orifice. Causes include: - Vacuum level too high - Overmilking - Worn or stiff teat cup liners - Incorrect pulsation ratio (too little massage phase) - Teat cups that do not fit the teat size If teat end damage appears, reduce vacuum level by 2 to 3 kPa and check pulsation function. Replace liners if they are worn. Examine teat cup size and consider switching to a different liner type. ### High [Somatic Cell](/blog/guides/somatic-cell) Count High SCC indicates inflammation in the udder, usually due to mastitis. Causes include: - Incomplete milking leaving residual milk - Vacuum fluctuations causing teat damage - Poor cleaning of milking equipment - Dirty bedding or housing - Introduction of new animals with subclinical infection If SCC rises, review milking routine and cleaning protocols. Culture milk from individual ewes to identify infected animals. Isolate and treat affected ewes according to veterinary guidance. ## Welfare and Safety Considerations ### Ewe Welfare During Milking Ewes should enter the milking parlor voluntarily and stand quietly during milking. Signs of stress include vocalization, kicking, defecation, and attempts to escape. Research on machine-milking practices, animal welfare-related reactions, and milk quality in dairy sheep farms has examined how milking system design and operator behavior affect ewe welfare [6]. To minimize stress: - Maintain consistent milking times and routines - Handle ewes calmly and quietly - Provide non-slip flooring in the parlor and holding pen - Ensure adequate ventilation to prevent heat stress - Avoid mixing unfamiliar ewes in the milking group Ewes that show persistent fear or aggression during milking may need to be culled. Research on the assessment of fear susceptibility during machine milking in dairy sheep of different ages and temperament has examined how temperament affects milking behavior and productivity [12]. ### Operator Safety Milking equipment presents several safety hazards. The vacuum pump and pulsator have moving parts that can cause injury. Electrical components pose shock risks, especially in wet environments. Heavy buckets and milk cans can cause back strain. Follow these safety practices: - Install ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) on all electrical outlets in the milking area - Keep floors clean and dry to prevent slips - Use proper lifting technique when moving milk containers - Wear non-slip footwear - Keep hands and clothing away from moving parts - Disconnect power before servicing equipment ### [Food Safety](/knowledge/bacteria/livestock-bacteria/cooking-chicken-bacteria-prevention) and Milk Quality Milk from sheep must meet the same food safety standards as milk from cows. The USDA National Agricultural Library provides resources on animal health and welfare that include food safety guidelines for dairy operations [5]. Key food safety practices include: - Cool milk to 4 degrees Celsius within 2 hours of milking - Store milk in a clean, dedicated bulk tank - Test milk regularly for bacterial count and somatic cell count - Discard milk from ewes treated with antibiotics until withdrawal periods expire - Maintain cleaning logs for milking equipment ## Professional Escalation Criteria ### When to Consult a Veterinarian Consult a veterinarian when: - Clinical mastitis affects more than 5 percent of the flock in any month - Somatic cell count exceeds 500,000 cells per milliliter for two consecutive tests - Teat end damage affects multiple ewes and does not resolve after adjusting machine settings - Ewes show signs of systemic illness such as fever, depression, or reduced appetite - Mortality occurs in the milking flock The Merck Veterinary Manual provides guidance on management and nutrition for dairy sheep, including health monitoring protocols [3]. ### When to Consult a Milking Equipment Specialist Consult a milking equipment specialist when: - Vacuum fluctuations persist after checking all components - Pulsation waveform does not match manufacturer specifications - Milk quality tests show elevated bacterial counts despite proper cleaning - The milking system requires modification for a larger flock - New equipment installation requires vacuum pump sizing and pipeline design ### When to Consult an Agricultural Engineer Consult an agricultural engineer when: - Designing a new milking parlor or renovating an existing facility - Planning a pipeline system for more than 200 ewes - Addressing ventilation, lighting, or waste management issues in the milking area - Evaluating energy efficiency of vacuum pumps and cooling systems The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service provides technical guidance on agricultural facility design, including milking parlors [2]. ## Frequently Asked Questions ### What vacuum level should I use for sheep milking? Standard vacuum levels for sheep milking machines range from 36 to 42 kPa (10.6 to 12.4 inches of mercury). Measure vacuum at the teat end using a gauge placed in the short milk tube. Adjust the vacuum regulator to maintain the target level while all clusters are operating. Higher vacuum levels can cause teat damage and incomplete milking. ### How often should I replace teat cup liners? Replace teat cup liners every 1,500 to 2,000 milkings or every 6 months, whichever comes first. Inspect liners weekly for cracks, hardening, or discoloration. Worn liners can harbor bacteria, cause teat damage, and affect milking performance. ### Can I use a cow milking machine for sheep? Cow milking machines may operate at vacuum levels too high for sheep. Sheep udders are smaller and more delicate than cow udders. If using a cow machine, adjust the vacuum level to 36 to 42 kPa and verify that the pulsation rate and ratio are appropriate for sheep. Some cow machines cannot achieve the lower vacuum levels required for sheep. ### How do I clean a pipeline milking system? Pipeline systems require a clean-in-place (CIP) cycle that includes a warm water pre-rinse, a detergent wash at 60 to 70 degrees Celsius, a fresh water rinse, an acid rinse, and a sanitizing rinse. Circulate the detergent wash for at least 5 to 10 minutes. Test the system weekly by swabbing milk contact surfaces and sending samples for [bacterial culture](/blog/guides/bacterial-culture). ### What pulsation rate should I use for sheep? Typical pulsation rates for sheep range from 120 to 180 cycles per minute. The pulsation ratio should be 50:50 or 60:40, with the massage phase occupying at least half the cycle. Test pulsation function weekly using a pulsation analyzer and record the rate, ratio, and waveform. ### How do I prevent mastitis in my dairy sheep flock? Prevent mastitis by maintaining clean bedding, using proper milking hygiene, avoiding overmilking, and monitoring somatic cell counts. Forestrip each ewe before milking and inspect the milk for abnormalities. Apply post-milking teat dip. Isolate and treat affected ewes promptly. Review milking machine settings regularly to ensure they are within the recommended range. ### What records should I keep for my milking operation? Maintain daily records of milk volume, number of ewes milked, and abnormalities observed. Record individual ewe milk yields at least weekly. Record vacuum and pulsation measurements weekly. Record clinical mastitis cases and treatment details. Record cleaning procedures and water test results. These records support health monitoring, culling decisions, and milk quality assurance. ### How do I choose between a bucket milker and a pipeline system? Choose a bucket milker for flocks under 80 ewes, seasonal dairies, or situations where capital is limited. Choose a pipeline system for flocks of 80 to 400 or more ewes where labor efficiency and milk cooling are priorities. Consider mobile units if you graze sheep on multiple paddocks or operate a seasonal dairy without a permanent parlor. ## Related Farming Guides - [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 Sire Selection For Herd Goals](/knowledge/animal-farming/dairy-cattle/dairy-sire-selection-for-herd-goals) - [Dairy Cow Cooling System Management](/knowledge/animal-farming/dairy-cattle/dairy-cow-cooling-system-management) - [Bale Grazing With Sheep Site Selection And Nutrient Management](/knowledge/animal-farming/sheep/bale-grazing-with-sheep-site-selection-and-nutrient-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. - [Machine-Milking Practices, Animal Welfare-Related Reactions and Quality of Milk Produced in Dairy Sheep Farms.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41227409). Animals : an open access journal from MDPI, 2025. - [Machine milking of Ostfriesian and Lacaune dairy sheep: udder anatomy, milk ejection and milking characteristics.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9161910). The Journal of dairy research, 1997. - [Mastitis of dairy small ruminants.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14556701). Veterinary research, 2003. - [Effect of milking pipeline height on machine milking efficiency and milk quality in sheep.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15453479). Journal of dairy science, 2004. - [Review: Milking routines and cluster detachment levels in small ruminants.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31280744). Animal : an international journal of animal bioscience, 2019. - [Influence of the Milking Units on the Pulsation Curve in Dairy Sheep Milking.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32708845). Animals : an open access journal from MDPI, 2020. - [Assessment of level of fear susceptibility during machine milking in dairy sheep of different ages and temperament](https://api.elsevier.com/content/abstract/scopus_id/84874835317). Bulgarian Journal of Agricultural Science, 2012. - [Laboratory Tests to Optimize the Milking Machine Settings with Air Inlet Teat Cups for Sheep and Goats](https://doi.org/10.3390/dairy3010003). Dairy, 2022. - [The effect of machine milking and nursing on diet selection of sheep](https://api.elsevier.com/content/abstract/scopus_id/34547979852). Indian Veterinary Journal, 2007. - [A proposal for a constantly rotating carousel for sheep milking](https://doi.org/10.1051/animres:19740405). Ann Zootechn, 1974. - [Order of sheep entry into the milking parlour and its relationship with their milkability](https://doi.org/10.1016/j.applanim.2006.11.016). Applied Animal Behaviour Science, 2007. > This article is educational and is not a substitute for veterinary diagnosis, treatment, public-health guidance, or regulatory reporting.