Predicates

The KWPN predicate system is unique and plays an important role within breeding. Predicates are used to distinguish between the different qualities of horses. Each predicate has its own meaning and corresponding requirements.

Together, the predicates provide breeders and owners with valuable information about conformation, talent, health, performance, and breeding value. Predicates can be awarded to mares, as well as to geldings and non-approved stallions, depending on the type of predicate and the applicable conditions.

If the horse achieves sufficient points at the studbook inspection, the ster predicate can be awarded. 

A ster mare that is presented at the Central Inspection before she has completed an IBOP or EPTM, or before she has performed at the required level in sport, may receive the designation voorlopig keur. 

To obtain the keur predicate, in all breeding directions the mare must either have successfully completed an IBOP or EPTM (EPTM does not apply to harness horses), or have reached a defined level in sport. 

A keur mare that has also obtained the PROK predicate, thereby meeting the KWPN radiographic requirements, can be promoted to elite. Mares that hold the D-OC predicate, demonstrating that their breeding value for OC meets the established requirements, are also eligible for the elite predicate.

The PROK predicate (Project Radiographic Examination KWPN) is awarded to mares that meet the studbook’s radiographic requirements. 

To provide breeders with better insight into the hereditary predisposition for OC, the genomic breeding value for osteochondrosis has been developed. 

By achieving sufficient scores in an aptitude test, a horse can obtain the IBOP or EPTM predicate.

The sport predicate can only be obtained by horses that actively compete in sport. 

The preferent predicate indicates that a mare has proven herself in breeding. A mare with this predicate has produced offspring that have performed well at inspections and possess good conformation and sufficient aptitude. 

A mare is eligible for the prestatie predicate when her offspring have achieved sport results that together amount to at least five points, calculated according to the points system as defined in the Merriekeuringsbesluit.