How To Find a Stud

Finding a stud horse to breed a mare is not as simple as many may believe. The stud determines a lot when it comes to the size and other physical characteristics of the foal. Serious horse breeders want a stud that comes from a good bloodline and contributes to the foal's personality, endurance, and strength as well as it appearance. Once you have decided to use your mare to raise a foal, there are several steps to take to find a stud that is worthy of the breeding process.

The first thing that a horse breeder must do is to determine exactly why the mare is being bred. It is important to have a plan for the unconceived, unborn foal. Will the horse be bred for a racing foal, or a showing foal; or are you seeking a foal with particular markings, a certain size, or other attributes? Knowing the type of foal that you hope is produced by the mare and stud will be a huge factor in deciding which stud you hire for service and where you begin your search.

After you have decided exactly what type of foal you wish to have from the mare, begin your research. Check websites, newspapers, horse farms and other equestrian-affiliated locations, such as vet offices, for stud owners that may meet your needs. Many websites offer a special area designated for stud horses.

Begin visiting horse farms to view studs. Look at each stud's disposition and size. Ask to see or have information about foals the horse has sired. Ask to see papers detailing the horse's pedigree. Gain a good idea of the horse's overall health by asking about vet records, worming, and other care. It is important that disease not be passed from the stud to your mare. Make sure that the facilities look appropriate for a horse and that the stud appears under good care.

If the stud seems to be a good potential sire for your foal, ask the owner about the stud fee. The amount of the stud fee varies greatly from breed to breed, horse to horse, and owner to owner.

If the stud fee and conditions are suitable for breeding, discuss the arrangements for the stud and mare to breed. Never leave the mare in a location that may lead to harm. Check the fencing, feeding, and watering of the animals. Ensure that the mare has an escape plan in case of danger when the two are introduced. Always watch the horses closely to make sure that the stud is not overly aggressive.