Leineschaf, or Leine, sheep comes from the region of
Nordheim (Hannover), in particular from the Leine river valley (hence the
name).
They were created through crossbreeding of local breeds with
Friesian, Merino, and Berrichon du Cher rams as well as rams of the English
Leicester, and Cotswold breeds. In effect, a white hornless sheep of the dual
purpose type was obtained. Medium-early maturing with uniform medium coarse
wool, it is a hardy and healthy breed, well adapted to difficult conditions and
to walking over long distances. In Germany, the breed is nearly extinct.