With many leadersheep being bred to “meatier” non-leader
lines the characteristics that make them unique are being diluted and may result in problem animals that have neither the intelligence
nor the docile nature of true leadersheep. Icelandic sheep with mixed leader genetics can have unique traits that
could make shepherding difficult. Not all leadersheep are natural leaders and even leadersheep that carry a high percentage
of leader genetics may not poses the attributes leadersheep are required to have.
According to SOUTHRAM, true leadersheep should have intelligence, the ability to lead and be calm. Leadersheep
are not known for their meatiness, wool quality or conformation and in fact have little to no economic value except as
leaders. Leadersheep are "unimproved" and more primitive than the modern Icelandic sheep therefore, crossing
leadersheep with non-leader Icelandics can result in decreased meat quantity and wool quality that can take generations
to correct. In our opinion, there is nothing to be gained by crossing
leadersheep with non-leader Icelandic sheep no matter how well intended. Any "perceived" benefits can already
be found within the non-leader population of well bred modern Icelandic sheep.
Leadersheep are mainly kept in flocks as a novelty, pets and
as flock leaders. In Iceland, shepherds with larger flocks may keep one or two and use AI on them to preserve the
well known leader lines and genetics. You would likely never see an entire flock of leadersheep in Iceland or
the use of a leader ram on a flock of non-leader ewes. We have great respect for those "responsible"
breeders that are working to preserve the integrity, characteristics and genetics of these unique sheep within the Icelandic
breed and believe they may have a role to play in larger flocks including breeds other than Icelandic. Unfortunately
some breeders in North America have resorted to using them as a gimmick to sell sheep and make claims that can sound very
convincing to the novice shepherd.
