The black-nosed Valais sheep is a breed endemic to Switzerland, originating in the Upper Valais region, in the German-speaking part of the canton of Valais. Although there are records of its existence since the 15th century, it was not officially recognized as an independent breed until 1962. This sheep is perfectly adapted to the extreme climatic conditions of high mountains thanks to its exceptional hardiness and endurance.
- Black face, ears, knees, hocks and hooves.
- White, fibrous, raw coat when not washed, and extremely fluffy.
- Both sexes have spiral horns.
- Males: 80-130 kg; height 75-83 cm.
- Females: 70-90 kg; height 72-78 cm.
- Each sheep produces about 4 kg of wool annually and requires shearing twice a year.
The black-nosed Valais sheep stands out for its unique charm and docile nature, qualities that have made it an icon of mountain sheep and an ideal companion in assisted therapy programs, just like dogs or horses.
Currently, there are approximately 13,700 registered sheep worldwide. Although their reproductive capacity is moderate, with an average of 1.6 lambs per ewe per year, this slow growth rate reinforces the breed's unique value. Its adaptability to mountainous terrain and extreme climates makes it one of the most prized breeds.