Maximum Points & Grading
What is grading?
Each individual purebred is graded against the breed standard. The purebred is scored on appearance (overall structure & proportion, markings), conformation (legs & gait), and wool. The scoring scale changes depending upon the age of the purebred. The goal is three 4s for age 4-12 months, three 5s for age 12-24 months, three 6s for age 24-36 months. Rams or ewes over 36 months of age are no longer eligible for grading. Upon grading, if the quality of the sheep receives the maximum points, this is referred to as “Maximum Points”. If one point was deducted, this is referred to as “-1”. Rams are graded more strictly than ewes. Only purebreds are eligible for grading.
This green “MAX” ribbon distinguishes Maximum Points.
Look for our sheep that have been awarded this elite recognition.
Why have purebreds graded?
Think of it as a “Good Housekeeping seal of approval”…in other words, an expert has evaluated and verified the quality. In this case, the sheep has been evaluated by a team of Swiss trained graders/judges.
Why does it matter?
As more sheep are graded, the option of choosing graded animals for ram semen and live animals will become an easy choice to guarantee quality. If a breeder or buyer is not 100% confident in their ability to judge quality, or just wants confirmation of quality, the grading score is a trusted measure of quality. Breeders or buyers will seek “maximum points or -1” graded sheep or ram’s semen for purchase, confident of what they are getting.
What does it mean for the future?
Ultimately, this will improve the quality of Valais Blacknose sheep, as breeders can choose “maximum points or -1” ram semen, rams and ewes. In the future, as in other countries, different tiers of Valais Blacknose sheep quality will be recognized and buyers will pay accordingly.
What is the difference between grading sheep vs. showing sheep?
Grading evaluates the individual sheep against the breed standard. The sheep are assigned a number & tagged, and no breeder/owner handles their own sheep during grading. Grading is done before the show. Not all sheep breeds/shows will grade.
Showing sheep is comparing sheep in the show ring on that particular day and placing the animals in order of their being closest to the breed standard. The breeder/owner will often handle or show their own sheep.