Broodmare inspection at the KNHS: how to prepare

What is a broodmare inspection?

At the KNHS broodmare inspection, approved judges assess your mare on several components: conformation, movement in hand and under saddle, and overall breeding type. The outcome determines which predicates your mare receives. A mare that scores sufficiently can earn the star predicate; with outstanding results and a proven dam line, the crown predicate or even the elite predicate is attainable. Inspections are organised regionally and take place throughout the year, usually in spring and summer. Check the KNHS website or the calendar in your EquiSight app for current inspection dates near you.

Requirements for participation

Before registering your mare, check that she meets the basic requirements:

• Minimum age: 3 years old on 1 January of the inspection year
• Valid microchip registration and passport in the owner's name
• Registered in the KNHS studbook or a recognised foreign studbook
• Negative result on the WFFS test (mandatory for certain breeds)
• Registration submitted before the closing date (typically 2–3 weeks before the inspection)

How your mare is assessed

The jury uses a scoring scale of 1 to 10 for the various components. For a KWPN-crossed mare, type (25%), build (25%), legs and hooves (20%) and movement in hand (30%) are all taken into account. If your mare achieves an average of at least 6.5 across all components, she qualifies for the star predicate. Movement carries significant weight: good scope, rhythm and balance in walk and trot are explicitly rewarded. Make sure your mare has plenty of free exercise well in advance and work on a relaxed, active way of going.

Practical preparation: 8 weeks in advance

• Week 8: have hooves trimmed and schedule a condition check with the vet
• Week 6: begin regular lungeing and in-hand training so she walks calmly in hand
• Week 4: practise standing square, and moving in walk and trot in hand
• Week 2: ensure the coat is in good condition — bathing and daily brushing helps
• Day 1: arrive early, allow your mare to get used to the environment and other horses

Keeping a dossier pays off

A well-documented horse history makes you a stronger breeder. In the EquiSight horse profile you can centrally record vaccinations, veterinary results, training notes and breeding data. This is useful when the jury asks about health history or when you later select a stallion using a breeding value estimate. EquiCoach also helps you retrieve breeding advice based on the data already stored in your profile, so you can make well-considered choices for the next season.

After the inspection: what now?

Has your mare achieved the star predicate? Congratulations — but it does not stop here. Star is the first step on the road to higher predicates. For the crown predicate, your mare must have at least two offspring that have been approved at inspection. Even stricter requirements regarding bloodlines and offspring performance apply for the elite predicate. Record the inspection results directly in your EquiSight profile so you have a complete overview over the years. Use the EquiSight calendar to schedule the next inspection deadlines in advance, because registration closes faster than you think.

Costs and administration at a glance

• KNHS breeding day entry fee: approximately €40–€65 per mare (depending on region)
• Passport amendment for a new predicate: €15–€25 via the studbook
• WFFS test (if mandatory): €50–€80 at an accredited laboratory
• Travel costs: allow €0.23/km when using your own trailer
• Optional: hiring a professional handler, on average €75–€150 per day