We often get asked “Where’s the best place to buy sheep?” A lot depends on your goals and what you’ll use the sheep for, but one thing is pretty much certain: Don’t buy sheep from the local sale barn. Below are some of the more common sale venues with some of the pros and cons listed.
Venue
Pros
Cons
On Farm
Often lowest cost option
Least chance of biosecurity issues
Least stress for animals
Ability to inspect the whole flock and observe management
Potentially more choices of one farm’s genetics
May allow better opportunity to develop relationship with seller, especially important if looking for a mentor
More flexibility on sale dates
Limited to only that farm’s genetics
Location (potentially)
If out-of-state, veterinary transport certificate may require additional time/expense
Seller may require cash-only payment
In-Person Breed Auctions
Wider range of options and genetics available in one location
Ability to physically examine and compare animals
Consigners usually bring their best to sell
Seller usually available on site to answer questions
Animals sell quickly by sale order
On-site veterinarian for transport certificates
Most forms of payment typically accepted
Mingling with other animals at sale increases biosecurity risks
Additional stress for animal (transport to sale; sale itself)
Competitive pricing
Consecutive bidding means you can’t go back and bid on an earlier animal if you get outbid later in the sale
Online Auctions
Potentially wider range of options and genetics
Consigners usually offer their best to sell
Simultaneous bidding allows you to bid on other animals if outbid on first choice
Length of sale allows time to plan bidding
Competitive pricing
Electronic payment usually preferred
Unable to handle or visually inspect animal
Seller may be difficult to reach for questions
Combination Auction – online auction with animals available in one location for inspection
Wider range of options and genetics
Ability to physically examine and compare animals
Consigners usually offer their best to sell
Simultaneous bidding allows you to bid on other animals if outbid on first choice
Length of sale allows time to plan bidding
Sellers usually available onsite to answer questions
On-site veterinarian available to provide transport certificates for animals located on-site
Mingling with other animals at sale increases biosecurity risks
Additional stress for animal (transport to sale; sale itself)
Competitive pricing
If buyer not in attendance or animal not on-site, must arrange transport
Acceptable forms of payment vary by sale
Regardless of where you choose to purchase sheep, keep in mind the basics. First identify your goals for your flock and farm, and develop a plan to reach those goals. Set a budget (and stick to it). Identify what specific traits you want to improve and/or downplay. Do your research – talk to the breeders, understand how their sheep are managed and their goals for their flock. Study individual animals offered for sale and remember there is no perfect animal.
