Breeding

While horses are capable of breeding on their own in the wild, human intervention can increase the chances of a successful mating and pregnancy. Generally mating season takes place in the summer so the foal can be born in milder weather. When a breeder is involved, however, mating may occur anytime during the year.

Breeders put a significant amount of effort into deciding which horses should mate. This form of selective breeding is used to produce the most desirable type of foal: strong, healthy, and beautiful. Breeders also breed certain horses in an attempt to create a hybrid horse breed. This is done in hopes of intermingling the best characteristics from each breed into one horse.

Racehorses

Racehorses are highly bred animals with an important connection to lineage. If a horse comes from a long line of fast racehorses, he too is expected to be fast. The family genes serve as an important indicator to potential for optimal racing performance.

A Breeder's Expenses

A breeder should expect to incur a large amount of expenses when breeding horses. The financial commitment includes the stud and booking fee, mare exams and transport, general veterinarian bills for the mare, and veterinary bills for the foal after birth.

Horse breeding also involves a major time commitment from the breeder. With the proper amount of attention, a healthy a foal will be the result of a successful breeding.