The West Front Dorper Stud was founded in 1978 when Ron van der Merwe bought his first Dorper ewes from the best available bloodlines. Complete records were kept since then.

In 1986 Ron participated in his very first South African National Dorper Championship with only four animals. The famous ram "Tico" (picture below) was born in 1986 and since that day the stud grew from strength to strength.

To improve the genetic qualities of the stud, artificial insemination (AI) and laparoscopic insemination are done with the best rams available in the breed.

A lambing percentage of up to 150% is achieved. Lambs are weaned at approximately 100 days and selection is done for growth, adaptability, conformation and type.

Tico