It originated in the early 19th century from crosses of local and Hampshire ewes with Southdown rams.
Dorset Horned), which is a white-faced sheep.
Dorset Downs are medium-sized, robust sheep with dark faces and short wool.
[2] Prior to the importation of Continental breeds like the Texel, the Dorset Down was a popular terminal sire breed in the United Kingdom.
[3] It was also exported to North and South America, New Zealand and Australia, but remains fairly rare in those countries as well.