what you should know before getting started?
Breeding involves careful planning, including selecting a suitable stallion, understanding breeding contracts, and navigating the registration process. Key steps include researching bloodlines and characteristics, ensuring the mare is healthy and prepared for breeding, and fulfilling the requirements of the AQHA for both the mare owner and the stallion owner.
AQHA requires that breeding stock be genetically tested to identify potential carriers of genetic disorders and determine their genetic makeup.
By knowing a mare's genetic status, breeders can avoid breeding to a stallion carrying the same gene disposition, thus preventing the birth of foals affected by those conditions. Empowered with genetic information breeders can make informed choices matching compatible horses. Even beyond breeding, knowing your horse’s genetic profile can guide decisions about care, training, and performance expectations.
Genetic testing helps maintain the integrity of the breed by ensuring healthy and sound horses are produced. Responsible breeding practices by a breeder, including genetic testing, protects the reputation and investment of their operations. See Genetic Testing.
Before breeding your mare, it’s important to ask a few important questions before you go stallion shopping. See Mare Owners.
Our Online Studbook gives you the opportunity to research the stallion. You can see if the Initial Breeding Fee (IBF) has been paid and if the stallion owner is a current member of AQHA; The offspring of the stallion and their success in the show ring if applicable.
What is a stallion IBF (Initial Breeding Fee)? A stallion must have its Certificate of Registration endorsed as having completed the IBF process prior to the first collection or service taking place.
The IBF process ensures offspring can be registered with the AQHA, with "IBF Paid" showing in the Online Studbook. It's crucial for mare owners/breeders to check for "IBF Paid" and "Not Suspended" status before breeding.
If you own a Colt or Stallion see Stallion Owners.
For more information contact our AQHA Office by email qhorse@aqha.com.au
or call (02) 6762 6444
