Sheep farming is a branch of animal husbandry. Sheep are raised principally for their meat, milk, and fiber (wool). Sheep with its multi-facet utility for wool, meat, milk, skins and manure form an important component of rural economy particularly in the arid, semi-arid and mountainous areas of the country. It provides a dependable source of income to the shepherds through sale of wool and animals.

Sheep can be reared as free range (where there is no shortage of land) or under housing inside a shed. It is a very important component in the dry land farming system. With very low investments sheep farming can be made into a profitable venture for small, marginal farmers and landless labourers.

Farmers can select from various breeds suitable for their region and market conditions. 

Indian sheep breeds:- Mecheri, Chennai red, Ramanadhapuram white, Keezhakarai Sal, Vembur, Neelagiri, Trichy black, Coimbatore, Deccani, Nellore, Mandya, Marwari, Gaddi etc.

Exotic sheep breeds:- Dorset, Suffolk, Merino, Rambouillet, Cheviot etc.