Originally Posted 06/23/2013
Some people make match decisions of mare and stallion based on pedigree alone, believing that a good pedigree will make a good product….for established matches, this holds some truth. But in general, we don’t agree. Genetics are a dice roll and in our opinion, failing to take into account physical strengths and weaknesses of the mare and stallion is a breeder’s oversight. Our approach to matching takes into account both pedigree AND physical appearance, including movement.
This approach makes a lot of sense, when you consider the ‘breed’ we are focusing on…the 50-year old German Riding pony that is founded on a combination of several other breeds, many times with a high degree of variability in the second or third generation…talk about taking a genetic gamble!
For us, pedigree (genotype) only gives an indication of the probability of the result. For example, if the mare’s pedigree has a history of producing well set necks, there is a higher probability she will too, but not guaranteed. Likewise, if the stallion line is known for a quiet disposition, the likelihood that the resulting foal has a good disposition is all the higher. But again, it’s not guaranteed!
We’re generally not of the mindset that if the horse has a good pedigree, then despite what is standing in front of you, the genetics within will produce ‘greatness’. The phonotype plays almost a bigger role in our evaluations. We firmly believe it would be irresponsible to see the individual for what they are; strengths and weaknesses and not just decide on pedigree alone.
Starting with the mare, we examine her conformation. What are her strengths or great points? Where is she considered ‘weak’ for sport? Loin connection? Neck set? Shoulder angle? Are there aspects of her conformation that would be a deal-breaker? If so, we won’t breed her.
Next, we’ll search out a stallion that enhances her strengths and compliments her weaknesses. It is very unlikely that we would select a prospective match who has the same weakness. Why double your chances for something you don’t necessarily want?
Then, we’ll look at how conformation is translated into movement and ability. . Next, we look at size. How tall is the mare and how tall is the stallion. What size has each produced in the past and that gives an indication of what size we might expect from the cross.
Finally, is there any no-go factors related to color? We don’t breed for color, but consider it in that we would never cross our pinto mare on a grey stallion.
It’s part art and part science, but overall we take many factors into consideration when selecting a match. With this approach, we hope to produce healthy, athletic, well-minded ponies for sport here in the states.