The KWPN provides its members with information about their horses in the form of breeding values. Breeding values are an estimate of a horse’s genetic transmission: they indicate the extent to which a horse can pass on certain traits to its offspring. This estimate is based on all information available within the KWPN, including data from sport, pedigree, inspections, performance tests, and stallion performance testing. Since 2022, breeding values have also been partly based on DNA information.

What are breeding values?

A breeding value shows the extent to which a horse can pass on certain traits to its offspring, relative to the population average. It is therefore not a reflection of the horse’s own performance, but of its genetic potential. The calculation uses data from:

• pedigree and relatives;
• the horse’s own performance;
• performance of offspring;
• and, where available, DNA information.

By combining this data, the most reliable possible estimate of inheritance is obtained. The reliability of a breeding value depends on the amount of available information. As more data becomes available—such as sport results, inspection results, offspring performance, or DNA—the breeding value becomes more accurate. Breeding values are updated regularly and may therefore change over time.

What do the numbers mean?

Breeding values are expressed relative to the population average (100). Horses are compared within their own breeding direction. For sport breeding values, steps of 20 are used. Approximately 70% of the population falls within the range of 80–120 points. Only the best transmitting horses for a specific trait (around 15%) clearly score above this range, while the weakest group scores below it.

Breeding values in practice

Breeding values are a tool to support breeding decisions. They provide guidance but should always be considered alongside other information, such as conformation, character, and intended use. Factors such as upbringing, management, rider, and training can cause a horse to perform differently in practice than its genetic potential might suggest. This can be either positive or negative but does not affect what the horse passes on to its offspring.

KWPN Database

All current breeding values can be found in the KWPN Database. For each horse, breeding values, pedigree, and genetic information are available. First search for the relevant horse, then click on “Genetic Profile” in the menu.