Why are sheep raised for wool, meat, and milk?

Domesticated sheep (Ovis aries) are raised primarily to satisfy human needs for food and clothing. Their utility stems from their ability to thrive on sparse forage and limited water, making them highly adaptable to various environmental conditions.12

The specific reasons for raising them include:

• Wool: Humans have selectively bred sheep to develop their undercoat into a dense fleece. Wool is a valuable, relatively imperishable commodity that is easily transported, making it a significant product for global trade. Different breeds are raised for varying wool types, ranging from fine, soft fleeces to long, coarse fibers used for carpets and rugs.1324
• Meat: Sheep are a major source of protein, with the meat of mature animals known as mutton and that of immature animals as lamb. Many breeds, such as the Hampshire and Suffolk, are specifically valued for their superior meat production.14
• Milk: Sheep are also raised for their milk, which is utilized in various regions. Certain breeds, such as the Dorset, are noted for their heavy milk production.135

Over centuries, hundreds of breeds have been developed to balance these outputs, with many modern commercial sheep being crossbreeds designed to yield high-quality meat and wool simultaneously.14