How do you make sheep friendly?

Answer 1

There are a number of ways to get a sheep to be friendly. The most important thing to remember is to keep an eye on the sheep (if it charges, know where it is located at all times), be patient, and talk in a low voice to be sure not to give the wrong signal.

It is easier to quite an animal if you place it in a pen or smaller area, begin by putting some grain in a dish. First place the dish in towards the middle of the pen, then stand at the opening and watch as it eats. As you progress, bring the dish closer and closer to you so the sheep has to come to you to eat. NEVER lock the pen door while you are in the pen, if the animal does charge you will need to get out easily.

It is important to stand there and watch it eat, the animal will begin to recognize that you feed it. As time goes on it will be easier for you to touch it, move slowly and let it smell you before trying to touch it. Depending on how wild the animal is or how much it trusts you, this may take a little longer.

Rams are harder to quite and usually are aggressive, you should treat them with respect. Always give them their space and do not play with their heads. If you have a ram that is known to charge, keep a cane with you for protection if he is out in the yard. Keep your eye on him at all times to ensure your safety.

Remember that animals will remember bad things that happen to them, it is important that this process is treated with ease and care when the situation allows it to be. This may take a long time to stay patient.