a little bit of history
Fifteen years ago, when we purchased our first trio of sheep, we had no idea what lay ahead. Acquired sight unseen from Hillgrove Stud in 2010, the group included a small, sturdy ram and a pair of twin ewes.
Registered as Southdown's with the Australian Stud Sheep Breeders Association (ASSBA), the term “Babydoll” was virtually taboo at the time. Conversations surrounding the breed frequently emphasized terms like “original” and “heritage.” We were even advised against using what was considered a strange American name— BABYDOLL!
We joined ASSBA as Southdown breeders in 2010, exhibited under the Southdown name, and issued registration papers accordingly. The “Babydoll” designation existed only in the hearts and minds of a few quietly passionate breeders who informally referred to them by that name.
From the beginning, however, we embraced the term "Babydoll Southdown's"—a name that, while unconventional at the time, reflected the unique charm and distinct identity of these remarkable sheep.
Anyone who receives ASSBA pedigree papers will quickly notice they contain only a few pedigrees information: the registered sire and dam, along with the sire of the dam.
When our first ASSBA papers arrived, they documented that the twin ewes we had purchased from Hillgrove were sired by Southern Pastures 37/09. At the time, Southern Pastures was a highly regarded Modern stud, and having its bloodline in our pedigree signaled we had acquired top-tier genetics.
As the years went on, it became increasingly apparent that the vast majority of ASSBA Southdown breeders were selecting for breed traits that no longer aligned with those that matched the original type. Because all registered sheep were listed under a single classification, it became difficult to distinguish which breeders were producing the short, chunky, short-necked "original" Southdown type, and who had shifted toward the more "modern" style The terms Babydoll and Modern Southdown began to emerge more frequently, reflecting the growing recognition of these two distinct types within the breed.
ASSBA Babydoll
In 2019, A committee "OEBSSAA" made up of some passionate breeders approached the Australian Stud Sheep Breeders Association (ASSBA) to have the Babydoll sheep recognized as a distinct breed in its own right. Bringing all the Original Type Southdown's under one herd book made it easier to trace bloodlines and replace stock. It also officially established the name "Babydoll"—no longer just a marketing term, but a legitimate breed designation for these adorable sheep.
By 2020, ASSBA and this new Babydoll committee Renamed -Babydoll Sheep Association of Australia Inc -BSAA reached an agreement on the breed standard and officially named the new flock book "Babydoll." At that point, all Southdown breeders were given the option to:
Its important to add here There was no inspection requirement during the transition, so both "types" of Southdowns were permitted to be included new type Modern Southdown and The old original type These initial sheep were all recognized as Foundation Sheep, and they were used to establish the Babydoll breeding program. All offspring from these animals are eligible to receive ASSBA papers issued under the Babydoll designation.
Breed Registry Rule Summary: Babydoll vs. Southdown Sheep
The rules were made explicit:
Fifteen years ago, when we purchased our first trio of sheep, we had no idea what lay ahead. Acquired sight unseen from Hillgrove Stud in 2010, the group included a small, sturdy ram and a pair of twin ewes.
Registered as Southdown's with the Australian Stud Sheep Breeders Association (ASSBA), the term “Babydoll” was virtually taboo at the time. Conversations surrounding the breed frequently emphasized terms like “original” and “heritage.” We were even advised against using what was considered a strange American name— BABYDOLL!
We joined ASSBA as Southdown breeders in 2010, exhibited under the Southdown name, and issued registration papers accordingly. The “Babydoll” designation existed only in the hearts and minds of a few quietly passionate breeders who informally referred to them by that name.
From the beginning, however, we embraced the term "Babydoll Southdown's"—a name that, while unconventional at the time, reflected the unique charm and distinct identity of these remarkable sheep.
Anyone who receives ASSBA pedigree papers will quickly notice they contain only a few pedigrees information: the registered sire and dam, along with the sire of the dam.
When our first ASSBA papers arrived, they documented that the twin ewes we had purchased from Hillgrove were sired by Southern Pastures 37/09. At the time, Southern Pastures was a highly regarded Modern stud, and having its bloodline in our pedigree signaled we had acquired top-tier genetics.
As the years went on, it became increasingly apparent that the vast majority of ASSBA Southdown breeders were selecting for breed traits that no longer aligned with those that matched the original type. Because all registered sheep were listed under a single classification, it became difficult to distinguish which breeders were producing the short, chunky, short-necked "original" Southdown type, and who had shifted toward the more "modern" style The terms Babydoll and Modern Southdown began to emerge more frequently, reflecting the growing recognition of these two distinct types within the breed.
ASSBA Babydoll
In 2019, A committee "OEBSSAA" made up of some passionate breeders approached the Australian Stud Sheep Breeders Association (ASSBA) to have the Babydoll sheep recognized as a distinct breed in its own right. Bringing all the Original Type Southdown's under one herd book made it easier to trace bloodlines and replace stock. It also officially established the name "Babydoll"—no longer just a marketing term, but a legitimate breed designation for these adorable sheep.
By 2020, ASSBA and this new Babydoll committee Renamed -Babydoll Sheep Association of Australia Inc -BSAA reached an agreement on the breed standard and officially named the new flock book "Babydoll." At that point, all Southdown breeders were given the option to:
- Move their flocks entirely to the new Babydoll registry
- Remain under the Southdown banner
- Split their flocks, nominating which registered sheep would belong to which breed
Its important to add here There was no inspection requirement during the transition, so both "types" of Southdowns were permitted to be included new type Modern Southdown and The old original type These initial sheep were all recognized as Foundation Sheep, and they were used to establish the Babydoll breeding program. All offspring from these animals are eligible to receive ASSBA papers issued under the Babydoll designation.
Breed Registry Rule Summary: Babydoll vs. Southdown Sheep
The rules were made explicit:
- Babydoll sheep breeders are not permitted to use the term "Southdown" when referring to their animals.
- Southdown breeders are not permitted to use the term "Babydoll."
- The flock book is closed to all outside bloodlines INCLUDING SOUTHDOWN
- The Babydoll breed is now officially distinct from the Southdown, and the two are no longer considered aligned breeds.
- As a result, breeding a Babydoll with a Southdown will result in a crossbred lamb, officially recognized as 50% from each breed, regardless of size, type, or which traits the lamb displays.
- Such offspring are ineligible for purebred stud registration with the ASSBA.
- Registering crossbred offspring as purebreds is considered taboo and is strictly prohibited.
With the introduction of the new name and flock registry, the other breed society, AABMGS, followed suit by adopting the same guidelines as ASSBA. They eventually did not allow the Modern Southdown type to be registered and also recognized the Southdown as a separate breed due to its distinct traits."
The AABMGS Commitee, after extensive discussion, had decided to add the word "Southdown" to the end of their Babydoll registry name. The official breed designation then became "Babydoll Southdown's." This change aligns the breed's name with international standards and ensures consistency with global recognition. - The Crossbred - Emerging Babydoll
The changes made by both the AABMGS and ASSBA to clarify breed identity and establish clearer standards had immediate and long-term effects on the breeding world.
As the Southdown breed evolved into two distinct categories—Modern Southdown and Babydoll Southdown—breeders were now tasked with navigating these new classifications. The introduction of the Modern Southdown genetics being used in a Babydoll breeding program, however, added a new layer of complexity.
In the past, breeders could easily cross these two types without much oversight. But with the stricter registry guidelines now in place, these "crossbreds"—no longer had a clear path into the established breed registers. This development resulted in the formation of a new group of breeders who, unable to operate within the frameworks of the ASSBA or AABMGS, chose to establish their own society. They believe that Southdown genetics still hold significant value. Despite the consistent evidence of Southdown x Babydoll lambs exceeding the recommended height limits and exhibiting a mix of the traits they remain convinced of the potential to create a more refined version of the Babydoll breed. It is worth noting that, rather than assigning a new name to this emerging type, this group has opted to continue using the name "Babydoll sheep," a decision that has led to some confusion. Historically, when new breeding lines are developed with the goal of establishing a distinct breed, they are typically assigned a new name. - This idea of crossing modern Southdown's with Babydolls to form a "new" breed has gained traction.
For the first time, this concept was seen not merely as a crossbreed designed to combine the best characteristics of two distinct breeds, but as a pathway toward creating an entirely new breed within an already established lineage. This has given rise to what is technically a hybrid that is neither fully a Babydoll nor fully a Southdown, but rather something that exists between the two with the hope that it will one day be a Babydoll as defined by this group of believers.
It's not unusual for selective breeding over time that breeders focusing on certain differences can eventually make two distinct types within the same breed. This is exactly what happened to the Southdown sheep in Australia.
Another EXAMPLE OF A BREED OF SHEEP THAT DUE TO BREED TRAIT DIFFERENCES SPLIT
Welsh Mountain Sheep Split:
The Welsh Mountain sheep was originally considered a single breed. However, due to geographical, environmental, and selective breeding differences across regions in Wales, distinct types evolved. Eventually, some of these types were recognized as separate breeds.
South Welsh Mountain is a smaller, hardier type with distinct traits adapted to the southern mountains.
North Welsh Mountain (or simply Welsh Mountain) is the "original" type from the north.
Badger Face Welsh Mountain split further into Torddu ("black belly") with white fleece and black markings on the face and belly, and Torwen ("white belly") with dark fleece and lighter facial and belly markings.
These were eventually recognized as separate breeds because their physical traits, fleece characteristics, and even management needs became distinct enough. - Breeders: Divided on Modern Southdown Influence
As with all animal breeding, there are always differing opinions—and Babydoll sheep are no exception.
Ask a dedicated Southdown breeder if they’d like to return to the original, old-style Southdown, and you’ll likely get a resounding “NO!”
Ask a passionate Babydoll enthusiast if they’d ever introduce Modern Southdown genetics into their breeding program, and you might just get chased out of the room.
Then there are breeders embracing the Southdown influence, who’ll argue that the Babydoll type came from the Southdown—so what could be more fitting? - If you ask us After 15 years of breeding Babydolls and witnessing many shifts in the breed, our view is this: The era of Modern Southdown genetics shaping the Babydoll has run its course. In fact, we believe that influence was already fading as early as 2010.
But that’s just our perspective.
We respect every breeder’s right to follow the path that suits their stud. Even when we disagree, we can agree on this: It’s the stud master’s decision. - BUT I JUST WANT TO BUY A BABYDOLL SHEEP
Unfortunately, at this point in time, buying a Babydoll sheep isn’t as simple as it might seem. It’s important to do your homework before making a decision.
Buy from a registered breeder only, preferably one listed on an official breed society registry we recommend ASSBA & AABMGS.
Always request pedigree papers—even if you’re not planning to breed. These documents confirm the sheep's lineage and authenticity.
Know what you’re looking for: Babydoll Southdown, Original Southdown, or Babydoll with a percentage of modern Southdown genetics (recently being referred to as a Southdown Mule). Each type has its place and may suit different buyers depending on their goals.
Research the breeder: Check their involvement with breed societies, look at their social media presence, and find out how long they’ve been breeding. This helps you make a well-informed decision.
ALWAYS ASK for photos of the adult sheep in the breeder’s flock. Lambs are always cute, but it’s the adult sheep you'll be looking at for years to come—make sure you like what you see. - Important Notice: BEWARE
We feel it is important to alert potential buyers that the term "Emerging" is increasingly being used to market crossbred sheep as if they are developing into true Babydolls. Unfortunately, some unethical PEOPLE are using this terminology as a marketing tactic to mislead new buyers into believing they are purchasing purebred Babydolls when they are, in fact, crossbreeds. By replacing the word "crossbred" with "emerging," these sellers aim to inflate prices and misrepresent the animal’s true value. Please exercise caution and always verify the legitimacy and registration status of the breeder. "While not all breeders using this term are trying to be misleading, unfortunately, the word 'Emerging'—which is by design replacing 'Crossbred'—has created an opportunity for misuse." - LET'S TAKE A LOOK AT THE TWO WORDS: EMERGING & CROSSBRED AND THE MEANINGS
- The word "emerging" means starting to become visible, known, or important. It describes something that is coming into existence or developing.
- The word "crossbred" means produced by mating or breeding two different breeds, varieties, or species.
It usually refers to animals or plants that come from parents of different types.
Examples: - A crossbred dog might be a mix between a Labrador and a Poodle (called a Labradoodle).
- A crossbred cow could be the result of breeding a Jersey cow with a Holstein.
- Related words:
- Crossbreed (verb): to breed two different types together.
- They crossbreed horses for better strength and speed.
- Hybrid is a similar word often used in science or farming.
The sheep pictured below provide a strong example of the influence of the modern Southdown breed, displaying a blend of characteristics from multiple bloodlines.
The ewes stand approximately 62 cm tall and exhibit the long necks typical of the modern Southdown. Their cannon bones are relatively longer and more refined compared to traditional types, and their backs are noticeably extended. Their facial structure falls into the medium-length category.
The hogget lambs have inherited the longer ear length from their dams, while also displaying the shorter facial features characteristic of the Babydoll breed. Their cannon bones are slightly shorter and thicker, and as they mature, it is likely they will reach close to 60 cm in height.
This photo was taken in 2014 and already illustrates the distinct impact of modern Southdown genetics. The dams are 50% modern Southdown and 50% Babydoll, while the lambs show a re-emergence of more traditional Babydoll traits, though they still carry visible genetic influence from their modern Southdown grandparents.
The ewes stand approximately 62 cm tall and exhibit the long necks typical of the modern Southdown. Their cannon bones are relatively longer and more refined compared to traditional types, and their backs are noticeably extended. Their facial structure falls into the medium-length category.
The hogget lambs have inherited the longer ear length from their dams, while also displaying the shorter facial features characteristic of the Babydoll breed. Their cannon bones are slightly shorter and thicker, and as they mature, it is likely they will reach close to 60 cm in height.
This photo was taken in 2014 and already illustrates the distinct impact of modern Southdown genetics. The dams are 50% modern Southdown and 50% Babydoll, while the lambs show a re-emergence of more traditional Babydoll traits, though they still carry visible genetic influence from their modern Southdown grandparents.
mixed-lineage stock
