Raising Icelandic Sheep: The Hardy Triple-Purpose Breed
A guide to Icelandic sheep - an ancient, extremely hardy triple-purpose breed giving prized dual-coated wool, fine meat and even milk, thriving on rough forage in harsh climates.
Icelandic sheep are a living piece of history - an ancient, unimproved breed that has thrived in one of the world's harshest climates for over a thousand years. Extremely hardy, they are a true triple-purpose animal, giving prized dual-coated wool (the yarn of the famous lopapeysa sweater), fine-flavored meat, and even milk. For a homesteader who wants versatility and toughness, they are exceptional.
Is it right for you?
Icelandics suit a homesteader who wants a hardy, versatile triple-purpose breed and values self-sufficiency over specialized production. They thrive where softer breeds struggle and offer wool, meat and milk.
Space & Housing
Rough pasture, strong fencing and minimal shelter suit these tough sheep; their dual coat handles cold and wet remarkably well. They forage effectively on marginal ground.
Feeding & Daily Care
They graze rough pasture and hay with minerals and water, needing little grain; they are superb foragers. Care includes hoof trimming, parasite monitoring and shearing (often twice a year).
Getting Started
Start with healthy stock, set up fencing and basic shelter, and learn hoof, parasite and shearing basics. Their hardiness suits beginners and harsh climates alike.
Health & Common Problems
Very hardy with few issues; the standard parasite, hoof and flystrike concerns apply but less than in softer breeds. Their toughness handles weather that troubles others.
What You Get
Prized dual-coated wool for spinning and knitting, fine-flavored lamb and mutton, and optionally milk - genuine triple-purpose value from a hardy breed.
Costs & Effort
Low to moderate - exceptional hardiness and foraging keep costs down, with shearing and the option of milking the main extra tasks.
Common Mistakes
Over-managing a breed built for self-sufficiency, neglecting shearing of the dual coat, and standard parasite lapses are the usual mistakes.
FAQ
Really triple-purpose? Yes - wool, meat and milk from one hardy breed.
What is special about the wool? Its dual coat - soft thel and water-shedding tog - makes the famous lopapeysa yarn.