Wool is..
Wool is a natural and renewable fibre, grown on the backs of sheep and shorn annually, only to regrow the following year. Thanks to its unique structure, wool is warm yet breathable, durable yet biodegradable.
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Sheep grow a new fleece every year, which must be shorn for their health and wellbeing.
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Wool biodegrades naturally, sequestering carbon and nutrients into soil without releasing microplastics.
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Wool fibres can be bent over 20,000 times before breaking, making it a great choice for carpets and upholstery.
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Wool is an excellent insulator, keeping you cool in the heat and warm in the cold, even when wet!
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Wool is a type of hair, making it hypoallergenic. It also wicks away moisture, decreasing odour-causing bacteria.
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Wool has a higher ignition point than most fibres and it is self-extinguishing.
Wool in Canada
Canada is home to 800,000+ sheep on 8,500 sheep farms across the country, producing 1.2 million kilograms of wool annually.
Canada has high breed diversity with over 53 breeds represented.
Ontario, Quebec, and Alberta produce nearly 75% of Canada’s wool clip.
Canada produces strong wool and fine wool, with applications spanning knitwear, carpets, and felt.
Common Canadian Breeds
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Rideau Arcott
Rideau Arcott is the one of the only sheep breeds native to Canada, created in 1966 by Agriculture Canada.
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Rambouillet
Often called the “French merino” for its high quality fine wool, Rambouillets thrive on prairies and grasslands.
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Shetland
There are eleven recognized colours and coat patterns of Shetland sheep. They are identifiable by these variations and their small stature.
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Cheviot
Cheviots are a British breed, named for the Cheviot hills of Northumberland. There are South Country or Border Cheviots and North Country Cheviots.
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Dorset
Dorsets are another British breed, originating in Southwest England. There are horned and polled (non-horned) varieties.
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Suffolk
Suffolks are one of the most prolific sheep breeds across North America. They are recognizable from their black faces and legs.
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Icelandic
Icelandic sheep have a double layer fleece, adapted for cold and wet environments—from Iceland to Northern Ontario and Manitoba.
Read our research
The Canadian Wool Council has partnered with government, researchers, and industry stakeholders to develop a range of reports and plans focused on strategic areas for growth and development within the Canadian wool industry.
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