Shetland sheep are members of the Northern European short-tailed group, and are considered to be a primitive (unimproved) breed. They originated on the Shetland Islands of Scotland, and like many breeds of livestock from this region, are small, thrifty, and of rugged constitution. Rams usually weigh from 90 to 125 pounds, and ewes, 75 to 100 pounds.

 Most rams have spiral horns, and most ewes are polled, but horned ewes can be found. Their wool ranges from short and fine, to double coated with a fine undercoat, with a range in texture from crimpy to wavy, and they often can be "rooed" (shedding wool plucked off by hand) in late spring. This shedding trait can cause a "break" in the fleece, so this needs to be considered when planning when to shear them (shearing "under" the break is recommended). This breed is especially known for the fineness, softness, and durability of their fleece, which is quite popular with handspinners today. 

   Eleven main colors and 30 patterns are recognized. Ewes are generally easy lambers and good mothers, frequently twinning, and are active foragers. My sheep love to be scratched on the underside of their neck and chest, and will follow me around looking for treats - their petite size makes them particularly easy to manage. No longer considered an endangered breed, there is still concern about maintaining genetic diversity and the conservation of the full range of colors, markings, and fleece types. In order to register Shetland sheep in North America, breeders need to belong to the North American Shetland Sheepbreeders Association (NASSA).