Warmblood Horse Selection

Selecting the best horse by a rigorous system and continuous evaluation and research to improve the Dutch warmblood horse selection in Holland.

The continuous evaluation of breeding stock, as well as a high-tech research, statistical, and records department bring the latest developments in science and technology to bear on the improvement of the Dutch warmblood horse.

Warmblood Horse Selection

The long horse-breeding history and agricultural heritage of the Dutch bring generations of nearly in-born expertise to the production of top quality Dutch horses. The main tools in the ongoing evolution and improvement of the Dutch warmblood horse are the keurings or inspections. Which are held in the Netherlands and in North America every year. Horses are evaluated and rewarded according to their quality and fulfilment of the Breeding Goal. This system includes a very rigorous selection and testing system for breeding stallions. One of the most selective and rigorous in the world.

Warmblood Horses Registries

Dutch warmblood horses are not branded as foals based on the fact that they are “registered”. Instead, in order to be branded, they must be presented for Studbook Inspection at the age of three or older. If they are of sufficient quality they are inscribed in the Studbook, and can be branded. Studbook horses are then eligible for awards or predicates assigned according to the quality of the individual, and the quality and success of the offspring.

The special predicates include “Star” for horses of especially good quality. “Keur” for star mares who perform a good performance test and show a good offspring. “Preferent” for mares who have produced particularly good offspring. And “Prestatie” for mares who have produced offspring that have been especially successful in sport.

Are Warmblood Horses branded?

Since the last couple of years Dutch warmblood horses are not branded anymore. All horses have a microchip in their neck. Micro chipping involves having a microchip injected into the skin in the horse’s neck by a vet. The microchip used is registered on the KWPN computerized system. When a scanner is passed over the microchip on the horse the identification appears on the scanner and can be matched with the record on the computerized system allowing the owner to be traced.

In many countries branding is not allowed by law read more here – Microchipping to improve horse welfare.