Is This Sheep Real or a Stuffed Animal?

Most people think of the Valais Blacknose sheep when reading nursery rhymes, and it’s rarely seen outside of Europe. Its fuzzy black face, ears, and hocks make it look more like a toy than a living animal. However, if this video is any indication, this adorable breed is very real. It’s also called the “world’s cutest sheep” for a good reason, here’s why.

A Sheep With a Story

The Blacknose sheep’s name comes from Valais, where it originated in Switzerland. The breed is highly adapted to mountain living and is still found in the upper region. Although it’s cute, this sheep isn’t just a farm animal. The Valais Blacknose is raised for meat and wool but is a hearty animal built for Switzerland’s harsh climate.

The lamb in the video is small, but these sheep can weigh up to 275 pounds. Rams can grow to nearly three feet tall, making them hefty animals. Despite their size, they are docile and, surprisingly, regard humans with great care.

Their Bouncy, Bubbly Nature

What makes this sheep unique is its duality. It’s tough enough to survive at high mountain altitudes, but most Valais Blacknose sheep have personalities like the one in this video. These sheep don’t shy away from human interaction, and this friendly trait has led many in the Valais region to keep them as pets or farm animals. The video above shows how gentle a lamb is, but adults are often just as docile!

According to Davis Family Livestock, these sheep are easily tamed and trained. Their curious and intelligent nature makes them the perfect “pasture pet.” Shearing is part of an owner’s routine care and maintenance and has the added benefit of wool as a byproduct. Outside of this, the sheep are perfectly content to entertain themselves. However, they do appreciate the company of humans!

Similar to goats, sheep experience excitement. The bouncy sheep in this video is expressing joy, likely over being fed. Its cheerful nature is something Valais Blacknose lambs are specifically known for. This is a calm breed of sheep, and adults are more laid back and attentive. Lambs sometimes bounce for fun or to interact playfully with other sheep, but they do it whenever they feel happy. As if there weren’t enough reasons to love these sheep, they can also get the zoomies. Zoomies are most associated with dogs, but these sheep have just as much energy and can be just as excitable!

Yes, They Can See Just Fine

In the video, it’s evident that not much bothers these peppy-looking sheep. There is one question everyone always seems to ask: Where are their eyes? The answer lies underneath all that adorably curly wool.

The most striking feature of the Valais Blacknose is its black and white coat. The color around its face is so dark that it gives the illusion that the sheep has no eyes. However, their eyes are also black and blend in with the surrounding wool. You can see their eyes up close, but they disappear on camera or from a distance.