While many are undoubtedly under the impression that only lambs are raised well, it is a misconception, as all sheep in the US are raised to the highest standards. While great feeding and peace produce great tasting meat, the same is true in delivering high-quality wool. A healthy sheep produces high-quality wool. The sheep genes and diet determine the quality of wool, and sheep that are subjected to trauma and stress also produce terrible quality wool. Sudden changes in surroundings, routines, feed, flock members and handlers are stressful to sheep, and the fleece will show these events as clear as daylight.

The different breeds produce different wool, but there are other factors to consider too, as each display distinct characteristics. The sheep that displays good characteristics while providing excellent yarn is the Merino. The quantities of wool delivered are excellent also. The best way to look at the breed is to determine the type of wool. For example; fine wool is produced by the Delaine Merino, the Booroola Merino, Rambouillet, Debouillet, American Cormo and the Panama. Farmers often classify sheep breeds for wool farming according to face colour. The white-face breed sheep have excellent wool and have superior maternal traits too.