Pre purchase guide
Basic Guide for New Babydoll Buyers
Thinking about buying Babydoll sheep? Here’s what you need to know to make sure you’re getting genuine, quality Babydoll sheep from a reputable breeder.
Please note: We often see people selling Babydoll sheep on Gumtree who say they are registered when they are not, so please check things out by asking to see the correct paperwork.
What a Genuine Babydoll Breeder Will Do
A trustworthy Babydoll sheep breeder will:
- Be honest: never pass off crossbreds as pure and if you wish to register with ASSBA, not sell you coloured Babydoll sheep. They will be happy to answer questions without obligation;
- Follow the Babydoll Breed Standard: all sheep offered will be true-to-type;
- Provide complete paperwork: pedigrees, health records, and ASSBA registration documents;
- Never sell single Babydoll sheep: know that sheep are flock animals and need other sheep at all times.
Where to Find Babydolls
- BSAA website: lists registered Babydoll studs and a marketplace;
- BSAA Flock Finder Facebook page: member sales and connections;
- ASSBA Flock Registry: contact breeders directly (many have waiting lists);
- Online listings: on Gumtree or occasionally on Farm Tender.
Tip: If you join a breeder’s waiting list, keep in touch regularly so they know you’re serious. Breeders are more likely to offer sheep to buyers they know and remember. Tell the buyer where you live, your land size and why you want Babydoll sheep so they can better meet your needs.
Pricing
ASSBA-registered Babydolls are stud sheep, and their price reflects:
- Rarity;
- Breeding;
- Care costs;
- Quality of the animal.
Expect to pay more than you would for unregistered sheep; premium quality comes with a premium price.
Preparing Before You Buy
While waiting for your Babydolls:
- Learn about Babydoll care: talk to sheep breeders, visit sheep shows and join BSAA so you have access to information for members only;
- Learn from neighbours with sheep and ask questions about sheep farming in your area;
- Prepare your property: you’ll need:
- Separate paddocks for rams and ewes;
- Secure fencing and sheep yards;
- Adequate shelter and handling facilities;
- Adequate equipment such as medications and tools.
Tip: Buying without proper infrastructure can cause serious management issues; it’s very important to plan ahead.
