Mutton Production, Adaptability, Hardiness, Veld Utilisation and Good Mothering Qualities. 

1.  Mutton Production 

The Dorpers is primarily a mutton sheep and meets these requirements exceptionally well. 
a.  High Reproduction Rate - In breeding mutton sheep a high reproduction rate is one of the most important economic factors. 
• The Dorper has a long breeding season which is not seasonally limited.
• The breed is fertile and the percentage of ewes that become pregnant in onem ating season is relatively high.
• Lambing intervals can be eight months, consequently under good veld conditions and with good management the Dorper ewe can lamb three timesin 2 years.
• Multiple births are prevalent and tstify to the high fecundity of Dorper ewes.
b.  Weight Gain - The Dorper lamb grows rapidly and attains a high weaning weight, which again is an economically important characteristic in the breeding of mutton sheep.
c.  Carcass Quality - A well-grown Dorper lamb has carcass qualities in respect of conformation and fat distribution, which generally qualifies for a super grading.

The Dorper is well adapted to a variety of climatic and grazing conditions.

The Dorper is hardy and can thrive under veld conditions where other breeds can barely exist and the ewe can raise a lamb of reasonable quality under fairly severe conditions.

As a strong and non-selective grazer the Dorper can advantageously be incorporated into a well-planned veld management system.

The Dorper ewe produces a large quantity of milk.

The Dorper is an easy care breed, which requires a minimum of labour.