The Spanish meat sheep production characteristics in the context of the European Union are described. A structurally deficitary profile, with 25 thousands Tm/year, is a main feature of this sector in an European‑like deficitary productive surrounding. It is an extensive or semiextensive production associated to the maintenance of environment and also protected by means of incentives: besides, consumers have a high quality opinion about the product. It is located in areas with little forage production, on the basis of highly environmentally adapted and low selected animals pertaining to autochthonous breeds.
The genetic improvement of these populations in pure breeds, are articulated through specific plans that are approved and stimulated by the Administration by means of the accepted Breeders Associations. Four native breeds and one group of breeds have an animal breeding plan. The native breeds are Merina, Rasa Aragonesa, Segureña and Navarra. The Ovino Precoz group is composed by the breeds Merino Precoz, Landschaf, Merino Fleischschaf, Île de France, Berrichon du Cher and Charmoise.
Breeding goals and selection criteria of each breed are described, specially the included traits. Finally, the characteristics of the last genetic evaluations made in the Merina, Rasa Aragonesa, Navarra and Ovino Precoz breeds are described, in relation to the number of animals and the methodology used . The work finishes with a present situation diagnosis and a brief analysis of the possible alternatives is made.