Sheepshead Etiquette
The unwritten rules that make you welcome at any table
Why Etiquette Matters
Sheepshead is a social game with traditions stretching back generations. While not official rules, these customs make the game more enjoyable for everyone and show respect for the game and your fellow players.
Follow these guidelines and you'll be invited back to any table.
The Essentials
Play at a Reasonable Pace
Don't take forever on every play. A few seconds of thought is fine, but habitually slow play frustrates the table. Think during others' turns.
Don't Reveal Information
Never say things like "I wish I'd picked!" or "I have the called ace!" Even after folding on a pick decision, don't reveal what you had.
Keep Cards Hidden
Hold your cards so others can't see them. Don't flash cards when playing them or picking them up. Accidental exposure can give unfair advantages.
Follow Suit Properly
Double-check you're following suit correctly. Reneging (playing wrong suit when you could follow) is a serious error that can void the hand.
Communication at the Table
DO Say
- • "Pass" clearly when passing
- • "Pick" when taking the blind
- • "I call [suit]" when calling
- • "Your lead" if someone forgets
- • "Nice play" for good moves
- • "Good hand" after a well-played hand
DON'T Say
- • "I almost picked that!"
- • "I have all trump" (or any hand info)
- • "You should've played X"
- • "Why didn't you...?" during play
- • Criticism of partner's choices
- • Comments about cards in your hand
Partner Etiquette
The secret partner system requires special courtesy:
Don't signal your partner: No winking, nodding, or coded phrases. Let the cards speak.
Don't gloat when revealed: A simple acknowledgment is fine, but don't celebrate being the partner.
No post-hand blame: Even if partner made questionable plays, keep criticism to yourself or phrase it as a question for learning.
Play your role: If you're the partner, help the picker. If you're a defender, defend. Don't switch sides mid-hand!
Dealing & Card Handling
Shuffle Properly
Give the deck a thorough shuffle (at least 3 riffle shuffles). Offer a cut to the player on your right before dealing.
Deal Consistently
Deal in the same pattern each time (usually 3-2-1 or 3-3). Don't vary your dealing style - it looks suspicious.
Don't Look at the Blind
As dealer, don't peek at the blind. Place it face-down and leave it until someone picks.
Announce Clearly
Say "Pick or pass?" when it's someone's turn. Don't rush people, but do keep the game moving.
Winning & Losing Gracefully
When Winning
- • A simple "good hand" is enough
- • Don't gloat or taunt
- • Don't explain how you "outplayed" everyone
- • Credit luck when appropriate
- • Keep celebrations brief
When Losing
- • Accept the loss gracefully
- • Don't blame partners or luck excessively
- • Don't demand to see what was in the blind
- • Pay promptly if playing for stakes
- • "Good hand" acknowledges the winner
Taboos - Don't Do These!
Table talk: Discussing strategy, cards, or giving advice during the hand
Coaching: Telling another player what to do (even if they're on your team)
Slow-rolling: Taking extra time when you know you're winning to build suspense
Chip/card splashing: Throwing cards or chips in a way that makes it hard to see
Quitting mid-session: Leaving right after a big win (give others a chance to win it back)
Welcoming New Players
Sheepshead survives because experienced players teach newcomers. When playing with beginners:
- • Be patient: They'll make mistakes - we all did
- • Explain after the hand: Not during, to avoid table talk
- • Lower stakes or play for fun: Don't hustle new players
- • Encourage questions: Between hands is fine
- • Praise good plays: Build their confidence