The core expertise of the KWPN lies in breeding. Therefore, our welfare policy focuses primarily on factors that can be directly influenced through breeding: health, conformation, character and genetic diversity. Together, these form the basis of the so-called ‘complete horse’: a horse that is physically and mentally equipped for its task, whether that is top-level sport, recreation or anything in between.

Breeding goal characteristic 1: a ‘complete’ horse in every respect

For all KWPN breeding directions, a clearly defined breeding goal applies, incorporating the following elements:

  • the horse must have natural talent for the relevant discipline;
  • a healthy constitution;
  • appropriate conformation and movement;
  • a well-defined, people-oriented character suited to its use.

Complete horse

These four elements together ensure a “complete” horse that is both physically and mentally suited to its intended purpose. Even horses that do not compete at the highest level are physically optimal, correctly built, and move well—making them suitable for a broad range of riders and users.

Breeding goal characteristic 2: healthy constitution

Within the KWPN breeding program, strict selection is applied to a wide range of health criteria and hereditary conditions. Thanks to stringent selection in the past, conditions such as navicular disease, bone spavin, and fetlock arthritis are now far less common. A comprehensive clinical examination (including soft tissues and organs) is also a standard part of the selection process.

Breeding goal characteristic 3: appropriate conformation and movement

The KWPN aims for a long-lined, well-proportioned, and correctly built horse with correct movement. Horses are evaluated on these and other criteria at multiple stages.

Breeding goal characteristic 4: a clearly defined, people-oriented character suited to its use

Only a limited number of horses compete at the highest level. Not every owner or rider has the ambition or opportunity to reach the top. Therefore, a good match between horse and user is an important point of focus. The KWPN conducts research into measuring and recording character traits and selecting based on character.

Inbreeding

Sufficient genetic diversity is essential to maintain health and vitality within the population. The KWPN safeguards genetic variation by:

  • monitoring relatedness and inbreeding;
  • paying extra attention to genetic diversity in smaller populations, such as harness horses;
  • supporting breeders with tools and information on genetic diversity.

Transparency, education, and regulations
The KWPN believes that breeding benefits from a highly transparent selection system, especially given the significant commercial interests in the sector. This transparency is reflected in:

  • the open nature of all selection moments for both stallions and mares;
  • providing clear explanations of inspection decisions wherever possible;
  • publishing inspection results and breeding statistics in writing and online.

The KWPN aims to be an accessible source of information for members and other stakeholders and to serve as a leading example within the breeding industry.

At all events organized or recognized by the KWPN, compliance with welfare guidelines is actively monitored. Stewards are present for this purpose. Horses participating in events must follow scientifically based vaccination schedules as outlined in the veterinary regulations. Horses that are not or not fully vaccinated are excluded from participation.

Prevention and early detection

Welfare is about prevention rather than cure. Therefore, the KWPN strongly focuses on:

  • education for breeders, owners, and riders;
  • encouraging timely veterinary checks;
  • sharing knowledge about housing, nutrition, training, and handling;
  • recognizing signs of physical or mental overload.

By making knowledge accessible to everyone in the equestrian world, unintentional welfare issues can be prevented.