Breeding with Success 

Sources

May-Davis S., Walker C. Variations and Implications of the Gross Morphology in the Longus colli Muscle in Thoroughbred and Thoroughbred Derivative Horses Presenting With a Congenital Malformation of the Sixth and Seventh Cervical Vertebrae. Equine Vet. Sci. 2015.


Valberg SJ., Henry ML., Herrick KL., Velez-Irizarry D., Finno CJ. & Petersen JL. Absence of myofibrillar myopathy in Quarter Horses with a histopathological diagnosis of type 2 polysaccharide storage myopathy and lack of association with commercial genetic tests. Equine Vet J. 2022.


Generatio.de

The reason is that even a positive finding does not necessarily lead to actual limitations of the horse. Therefore, it is also doubtful whether horses with this diagnosis have to be excluded from breeding, even if it could be assumed that kissing spines are hereditary.

For some years now, there have been other diseases that have come into focus in horse breeding. But here, too, it is important not to jump to conclusions. There is often a lack of scientifically validated studies, so it is not possible to say with certainty whether, and to what extent, the findings influence the individual horse. In recent years there has been much discussion about PSSM (Polysaccharide Storage Myopathy), a defect in the musculature. Currently, everyone is talking about ECVM (Equine Complex Vertebral Malformation - malformed vertebrae in the lower cervical spine). What is it all about, where do the diseases come from and is it possible to do something about it in breeding?

PSSM

PSSM is divided into two types: PSSM type 1 and PSSM type 2. The first is a disorder of the sugar metabolism that causes excessive storage of glycogen in the muscle. The decisive factor is a gene mutation. PSSM1 is manifested by reluctance to move, symptoms similar to lumbago, muscle tremors and tension, sometimes problems with backing up or excessive sweating. The most commonly affected breeds are cold-blooded horses and Quarter Horses. PSSM1 can be detected by genetic testing.

PSSM type 2 combines a total of six different gene variants that are responsible for the symptoms. It is a collective term for a number of muscle diseases with similar symptoms. It is based on a genetic mutation that affects protein metabolism, which is important for muscle function. Many warm-blooded animals seem to be carriers of this gene mutation. It initially manifests itself in reluctance to move, occasional alternating lameness, tension and stiffness, and often ends in exercise and training intolerance. In other words, the horses no longer participate because they simply have muscle pain. There have been cases where the horses tended to be ataxic or showed stringhalt. If it is recognized that the horse suffers from PSSM, it can be counteracted quite successfully through a good feeding regime and training management.












But what do these diseases mean in terms of breeding? It is a fact that many carriers are undetected in breeding, because only a genetic test can confirm the assumption of a genetic defect in the first place. The Hanoverian, Oldenburg and Holstein Associations, as well as the Westphalian Horse Stud Book and the Trakehner Association, have joined a project of the International Association of Horse Breeding GmbH & Co.KG (IAFH), which has set itself the task of obtaining fundamental scientific knowledge about this disease. So far, there are no validated studies and scientifically proven results. And it is far from certain that a foal whose parents are PSSM2 positive will ever have problems. If one suspects that the horse suffers from PSSM2, only a genetic test can bring certainty. If one does not want to do a biopsy straight away, a low-carbohydrate diet can often lead to an improvement in health. It must be ensured that the horse is supplied with valuable proteins and sufficient energy (for example via oil).

ECVM

The second disease that breeders are currently concerned about is ECVM, deformities of the lower cervical vertebrae C6 and C7. In this case, rideability problems, but also horses that suddenly fall or stillbirths are in focus. The reason is that the lower cervical vertebrae is not properly formed and muscles that stabilise the cervical spine cannot attach correctly. Some horses have even been found to have a missing or deformed first rib. This severely impairs the stability of the rib cage, as many important muscle groups are attached there. Frequently, these malformations are found in highly elastic and particularly strong-moving horses. Whether and to what extent the disease is inherited has not been conclusively clarified.

The reproach that this problem arises from the fact that horses are bred to be more and more mobile, and thus more unstable, is also not proven. Today’s diagnostic possibilities are much greater than they were a few years ago and it is now possible to detect things that were not found in the past. However, there is no way to determine whether the problems did not exist 50 years ago or could not be seen.

ECVM can only be detected radiologically - but that is not easy. It is hardly visible on conventional lateral X-rays of the cervical spine and even if the X-ray machine is positioned differently, the last cervical vertebra is almost behind the shoulder blade and is hardly visible.

Heritability of ECVM cannot be scientifically proven. It is by no means said that horses with good management and training cannot show pain-free sporting performance up to the highest classes, if they have cervical vertebrae alteration. But there is still a long way to go in this field before reliable results are available.

Summary

The buyer’s market is becoming more and more critical and the testing methods more and more precise. If you want to breed a horse for a later sale, you must think carefully about which mating makes sense. Breeding is long and expensive and even breeders with many years of experience do not breed only world champions. Short-term corrections of serious mistakes are not possible. The try-and-error principle cannot be implemented. Therefore, it is suggested to plan well, contact experts and listen to their advice. Exclude contingencies as much as possible and, last but not least, hope for a bit of breeder’s luck that everyone needs. 

One thing is certain, however, if all goes well, your own foal and the accompaniment of its development into a horse will be one of the most rewarding experiences you can have with horses.

A lot of value is also placed on the interior of the horse. Breeders keep an eye on the motivation and willingness to perform, as well as the rideability of the offspring. Only if the horses participate and can be ridden well will a market be found for them. It does not work if the horse has incredible movement that the rider cannot handle. When it comes to the showjumper, it is not crucial that the horse flies over the highest jumps, but that it can be ridden well towards the jump.

In all warmblood breeds there are breeding lines whose offspring have incredible sporting potential, but whose special character means that they belong in the hands of professional riders. Therefore, it is important to make enquiries as to which pedigree is best suited for which purpose. Especially if one is still inexperienced in this field.

Health 

in horse breeding has been discussed across borders for decades. Of course, the basic prerequisite for a healthy foal are healthy parents. A mare that suffers from chronic navicular disease in the front and spavin in the back and is therefore no longer rideable at the age of ten, is not the best foundation for long-lasting offspring. Without exception, preference should also be given to tested stallions that are recognized in breeding associations. Here, the health aspects have been examined, but also conformation and interior meet the set breeding standards. In the case of older stallions, it is always worth looking at the offspring that has been in sport already. 

Many discussions about health aspects can be put into perspective as knowledge and technology keeps developing. About 20 years ago, chips (OCD - Osteochondrosis dissecans) were the talk of the town. Today, we know that a chip is not that decisive. If it is in a place where it bothers, it can usually be easily removed thanks to advanced treatment methods. If it does not bother the horse, it is left where it is. In 2018, the much-discussed kissing spines were clearly put into perspective in the new edition of the German X-ray guidelines for purchase examinations.

Why breed?

Targeted breeding is so important as the demands on horses are constantly changing. Only if the horses meet the requirements of the respective time and benefit, is the continuity of their species ensured. But breeding is a long process and is often called “thinking in generations”. By definition, breeding is described as “The biology of controlled reproduction with the aim of genetic reshaping”. According to this, desired traits are to be strengthened and undesired traits suppressed. Parental animals are specifically selected and mated with each other. This process is called selection. In addition, breeding value assessments and performance tests are carried out in order to follow up on the breeding successes as accurately as possible.

Behind all this is the theory of heredity - genetics. This science, which was essentially founded by Gregor Mendel in 1866, deals with the formation of hereditary traits and the passing on of hereditary characteristics to the next generation. With this knowledge, it is possible to crossbreed and mate in a very targeted manner, thus enabling breeding progress.

Well-known breeders

There are successful and well-known horse breeders in most countries, some of whom have been ensuring that healthy and promising foals see the light of day for generations. It is always worthwhile to listen to the advice of professionals. Especially if you do not have much experience in horse breeding yourself. Get advice from experts in the breeding associations, see if you can find a good breeder in your area (the breeding association can also help here) and ask if you are allowed to visit. Take their advice and let them give you tips. Experienced, good horse breeders, like the breeding associations, focus on the welfare of the animal and the further development of the respective breed. They will certainly be happy to assist you. This applies to the selection of the right stallion, as well as to the keeping of the mare and the rearing of the foal. It is a long way from the decision of wanting to breed - to the self-bred, healthy riding horse. There is a lot to be considered and mistakes to be avoided. Therefore, it is essential to be well-prepared in order to avoid mistakes and errors.

Equine anatomy

Today’s warmblood horse is far superior in its athleticism and elasticity to the horse of 50 years ago. This has certainly affected the characteristics of the exterior. For example, the modern sport horse is longer-legged, has considerably more frame and size, and is lighter and more elastic than its relatives from earlier times. 

The trendsetter for modern breeding was the Hanoverian Association. Here it was possible to draw on a very large population of horses, the breeding animals were strictly selected, and the breeders were, to a large extent, prepared to follow the demand for change. Other breeding associations, such as Trakehner, Holsteiner, Oldenburger and so on, pursued and still pursue their targets consistently. Each breeding association have fixed breeding intentions that have to be achieved. Parents and offspring are tested and evaluated equally according to these criteria. 

Horse breeding is a tradition that has been practised for centuries. By selective mating of parent animals, it has been possible over the generations to breed exactly the horses that were needed at the time. For example, war horses were needed during the Middle Ages, and in the Baroque period, animals which the high lords could experience joyful moments with were desired. Strong, frugal horses were needed for agriculture, pulling and carriage driving, but today people attach importance to a sporting partner, leisure companion and personality traits. The modern warmblood horse shines with rideability and sportiness and if you compare photos from 50 years ago with today’s horses, the change in type is immediately obvious. The German Warmblood Breeding Associations, as for instance Hanoverian, Holstein, and Oldenburg, are the oldest registered Warmblood Breeding Associations in the world. They were all founded more than one hundred years ago and had a strong influence on the success stories of the French breeding association Selle Francais, founded in the middle of the last century, the Danish Warmblood Association and the Dutch Association KWPN.

By Kerstin Schmidt // Photos: Vielbauch - Thorsten Schneider
Breeding horses is not always easy. It takes a lot of knowledge and research, and you can’t always ensure the success. Whitin this article, Malgré Tout gives you a brief insight into what you need to consider, which health discussions are currently present, and how to avoid the biggest mistakes when breeding.

– Breeding requires a lot of know-how

Warmblood Fragile Foal System (WFFS)

This is a connective tissue disorder in which the epidermis detaches from the subcutis. As a result, the skin simply tears. The foals are very weak and often suffer from overstretched joints. If they are not stillborn or if there was no abortion, the only way is to euthanize the foal shortly after birth, as the disease is incurable. The disease is autosomal recessive. This means that the disease only appears when the chromosome of the mother and the chromosome of the father carry the disease-causing alteration. Whether a horse is a carrier can be easily checked by a genetic test. One should never mate two carrier horses, at least one parent should be free of the genetic defect.

Sources

May-Davis S., Walker C. Variations and Implications of the Gross Morphology in the Longus colli Muscle in Thoroughbred and Thoroughbred Derivative Horses Presenting With a Congenital Malformation of the Sixth and Seventh Cervical Vertebrae. Equine Vet. Sci. 2015.


Valberg SJ., Henry ML., Herrick KL., Velez-Irizarry D., Finno CJ. & Petersen JL. Absence of myofibrillar myopathy in Quarter Horses with a histopathological diagnosis of type 2 polysaccharide storage myopathy and lack of association with commercial genetic tests. Equine Vet J. 2022.


Generatio.de

The reason is that even a positive finding does not necessarily lead to actual limitations of the horse. Therefore, it is also doubtful whether horses with this diagnosis have to be excluded from breeding, even if it could be assumed that kissing spines are hereditary.

For some years now, there have been other diseases that have come into focus in horse breeding. But here, too, it is important not to jump to conclusions. There is often a lack of scientifically validated studies, so it is not possible to say with certainty whether, and to what extent, the findings influence the individual horse. In recent years there has been much discussion about PSSM (Polysaccharide Storage Myopathy), a defect in the musculature. Currently, everyone is talking about ECVM (Equine Complex Vertebral Malformation - malformed vertebrae in the lower cervical spine). What is it all about, where do the diseases come from and is it possible to do something about it in breeding?

PSSM

PSSM is divided into two types: PSSM type 1 and PSSM type 2. The first is a disorder of the sugar metabolism that causes excessive storage of glycogen in the muscle. The decisive factor is a gene mutation. PSSM1 is manifested by reluctance to move, symptoms similar to lumbago, muscle tremors and tension, sometimes problems with backing up or excessive sweating. The most commonly affected breeds are cold-blooded horses and Quarter Horses. PSSM1 can be detected by genetic testing.

PSSM type 2 combines a total of six different gene variants that are responsible for the symptoms. It is a collective term for a number of muscle diseases with similar symptoms. It is based on a genetic mutation that affects protein metabolism, which is important for muscle function. Many warm-blooded animals seem to be carriers of this gene mutation. It initially manifests itself in reluctance to move, occasional alternating lameness, tension and stiffness, and often ends in exercise and training intolerance. In other words, the horses no longer participate because they simply have muscle pain. There have been cases where the horses tended to be ataxic or showed stringhalt. If it is recognized that the horse suffers from PSSM, it can be counteracted quite successfully through a good feeding regime and training management.












But what do these diseases mean in terms of breeding? It is a fact that many carriers are undetected in breeding, because only a genetic test can confirm the assumption of a genetic defect in the first place. The Hanoverian, Oldenburg and Holstein Associations, as well as the Westphalian Horse Stud Book and the Trakehner Association, have joined a project of the International Association of Horse Breeding GmbH & Co.KG (IAFH), which has set itself the task of obtaining fundamental scientific knowledge about this disease. So far, there are no validated studies and scientifically proven results. And it is far from certain that a foal whose parents are PSSM2 positive will ever have problems. If one suspects that the horse suffers from PSSM2, only a genetic test can bring certainty. If one does not want to do a biopsy straight away, a low-carbohydrate diet can often lead to an improvement in health. It must be ensured that the horse is supplied with valuable proteins and sufficient energy (for example via oil).

ECVM

The second disease that breeders are currently concerned about is ECVM, deformities of the lower cervical vertebrae C6 and C7. In this case, rideability problems, but also horses that suddenly fall or stillbirths are in focus. The reason is that the lower cervical vertebrae is not properly formed and muscles that stabilise the cervical spine cannot attach correctly. Some horses have even been found to have a missing or deformed first rib. This severely impairs the stability of the rib cage, as many important muscle groups are attached there. Frequently, these malformations are found in highly elastic and particularly strong-moving horses. Whether and to what extent the disease is inherited has not been conclusively clarified.

The reproach that this problem arises from the fact that horses are bred to be more and more mobile, and thus more unstable, is also not proven. Today’s diagnostic possibilities are much greater than they were a few years ago and it is now possible to detect things that were not found in the past. However, there is no way to determine whether the problems did not exist 50 years ago or could not be seen.

ECVM can only be detected radiologically - but that is not easy. It is hardly visible on conventional lateral X-rays of the cervical spine and even if the X-ray machine is positioned differently, the last cervical vertebra is almost behind the shoulder blade and is hardly visible.

Heritability of ECVM cannot be scientifically proven. It is by no means said that horses with good management and training cannot show pain-free sporting performance up to the highest classes, if they have cervical vertebrae alteration. But there is still a long way to go in this field before reliable results are available.

Summary

The buyer’s market is becoming more and more critical and the testing methods more and more precise. If you want to breed a horse for a later sale, you must think carefully about which mating makes sense. Breeding is long and expensive and even breeders with many years of experience do not breed only world champions. Short-term corrections of serious mistakes are not possible. The try-and-error principle cannot be implemented. Therefore, it is suggested to plan well, contact experts and listen to their advice. Exclude contingencies as much as possible and, last but not least, hope for a bit of breeder’s luck that everyone needs. 

One thing is certain, however, if all goes well, your own foal and the accompaniment of its development into a horse will be one of the most rewarding experiences you can have with horses.

A lot of value is also placed on the interior of the horse. Breeders keep an eye on the motivation and willingness to perform, as well as the rideability of the offspring. Only if the horses participate and can be ridden well will a market be found for them. It does not work if the horse has incredible movement that the rider cannot handle. When it comes to the showjumper, it is not crucial that the horse flies over the highest jumps, but that it can be ridden well towards the jump.

In all warmblood breeds there are breeding lines whose offspring have incredible sporting potential, but whose special character means that they belong in the hands of professional riders. Therefore, it is important to make enquiries as to which pedigree is best suited for which purpose. Especially if one is still inexperienced in this field.

Health 

in horse breeding has been discussed across borders for decades. Of course, the basic prerequisite for a healthy foal are healthy parents. A mare that suffers from chronic navicular disease in the front and spavin in the back and is therefore no longer rideable at the age of ten, is not the best foundation for long-lasting offspring. Without exception, preference should also be given to tested stallions that are recognized in breeding associations. Here, the health aspects have been examined, but also conformation and interior meet the set breeding standards. In the case of older stallions, it is always worth looking at the offspring that has been in sport already. 

Many discussions about health aspects can be put into perspective as knowledge and technology keeps developing. About 20 years ago, chips (OCD - Osteochondrosis dissecans) were the talk of the town. Today, we know that a chip is not that decisive. If it is in a place where it bothers, it can usually be easily removed thanks to advanced treatment methods. If it does not bother the horse, it is left where it is. In 2018, the much-discussed kissing spines were clearly put into perspective in the new edition of the German X-ray guidelines for purchase examinations.

Warmblood Fragile Foal System (WFFS)

This is a connective tissue disorder in which the epidermis detaches from the subcutis. As a result, the skin simply tears. The foals are very weak and often suffer from overstretched joints. If they are not stillborn or if there was no abortion, the only way is to euthanize the foal shortly after birth, as the disease is incurable. The disease is autosomal recessive. This means that the disease only appears when the chromosome of the mother and the chromosome of the father carry the disease-causing alteration. Whether a horse is a carrier can be easily checked by a genetic test. One should never mate two carrier horses, at least one parent should be free of the genetic defect.

Targeted breeding is so important as the demands on horses are constantly changing. Only if the horses meet the requirements of the respective time and benefit, is the continuity of their species ensured. But breeding is a long process and is often called “thinking in generations”. By definition, breeding is described as “The biology of controlled reproduction with the aim of genetic reshaping”. According to this, desired traits are to be strengthened and undesired traits suppressed. Parental animals are specifically selected and mated with each other. This process is called selection. In addition, breeding value assessments and performance tests are carried out in order to follow up on the breeding successes as accurately as possible.

Behind all this is the theory of heredity - genetics. This science, which was essentially founded by Gregor Mendel in 1866, deals with the formation of hereditary traits and the passing on of hereditary characteristics to the next generation. With this knowledge, it is possible to crossbreed and mate in a very targeted manner, thus enabling breeding progress.

Well-known breeders

There are successful and well-known horse breeders in most countries, some of whom have been ensuring that healthy and promising foals see the light of day for generations. It is always worthwhile to listen to the advice of professionals. Especially if you do not have much experience in horse breeding yourself. Get advice from experts in the breeding associations, see if you can find a good breeder in your area (the breeding association can also help here) and ask if you are allowed to visit. Take their advice and let them give you tips. Experienced, good horse breeders, like the breeding associations, focus on the welfare of the animal and the further development of the respective breed. They will certainly be happy to assist you. This applies to the selection of the right stallion, as well as to the keeping of the mare and the rearing of the foal. It is a long way from the decision of wanting to breed - to the self-bred, healthy riding horse. There is a lot to be considered and mistakes to be avoided. Therefore, it is essential to be well-prepared in order to avoid mistakes and errors.

Equine anatomy

Today’s warmblood horse is far superior in its athleticism and elasticity to the horse of 50 years ago. This has certainly affected the characteristics of the exterior. For example, the modern sport horse is longer-legged, has considerably more frame and size, and is lighter and more elastic than its relatives from earlier times. 

The trendsetter for modern breeding was the Hanoverian Association. Here it was possible to draw on a very large population of horses, the breeding animals were strictly selected, and the breeders were, to a large extent, prepared to follow the demand for change. Other breeding associations, such as Trakehner, Holsteiner, Oldenburger and so on, pursued and still pursue their targets consistently. Each breeding association have fixed breeding intentions that have to be achieved. Parents and offspring are tested and evaluated equally according to these criteria. 

Why breed?

Horse breeding is a tradition that has been practised for centuries. By selective mating of parent animals, it has been possible over the generations to breed exactly the horses that were needed at the time. For example, war horses were needed during the Middle Ages, and in the Baroque period, animals which the high lords could experience joyful moments with were desired. Strong, frugal horses were needed for agriculture, pulling and carriage driving, but today people attach importance to a sporting partner, leisure companion and personality traits. The modern warmblood horse shines with rideability and sportiness and if you compare photos from 50 years ago with today’s horses, the change in type is immediately obvious. The German Warmblood Breeding Associations, as for instance Hanoverian, Holstein, and Oldenburg, are the oldest registered Warmblood Breeding Associations in the world. They were all founded more than one hundred years ago and had a strong influence on the success stories of the French breeding association Selle Francais, founded in the middle of the last century, the Danish Warmblood Association and the Dutch Association KWPN.

By Kerstin Schmidt // Photos: Vielbauch - Thorsten Schneider
Breeding horses is not always easy. It takes a lot of knowledge and research, and you can’t always ensure the success. Whitin this article, Malgré Tout gives you a brief insight into what you need to consider, which health discussions are currently present, and how to avoid the biggest mistakes when breeding.

Breeding with Success 

– Breeding requires a lot of know-how

DIGITAL MAGAZINE

Malgré Tout Media´s digital magazine is Europe´s new digital bi-monthly equestrian magazine with 100 % FREE content. Here you will find exclusive articles with a wide range of topics for anyone with a passion for horses and the equestrian sport.
Fullscreen