It was developed in South Africa by crossing the Dorset Horn and the Blackhead Persian. The colour of the Dorper is white, greyish-white on their body and legs, while their head and upper neck is black. It is a hair sheep breed, i.e., they shed their fur for the most part, so there is no shearing required. They are out-of-season breeders, suitable for accelerated lambing, with a prolificacy of 160 to 180%. They have a placid temperament, and their maternal traits are particularly good. Their grazing behaviour and resistance are good, and they resist drought. The average daily gain (ADG) of lambs ranges from 350 to 450 g. Mature weights for ewes range from 75 to 80 kg, and ram weights vary from 90 to 110 kg.