How to Start a Horse Breeding Business

Breeding horses can be a profitable business if done correctly, though it takes a lot of hard work and money. Creating a successful breeding business can take years of trial and error but can become very rewarding once you are established.

Things You'll Need

  • Proven mares
  • Proven stallion(s)
  • Acreage
  • Barns
  • Experienced workers
  • Nearby medical facilities
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Instructions

    • 1

      Learn as much as you can about breeding, genetics, the business of breeding operations and the day-to-day activities of a successful breeding operation. You can do these things by reading, becoming an apprentice or worker at a breeding operation, or by taking courses at local universities in the agriculture department. You can also learn about breeding by working at an equine veterinarian's office during breeding and foaling season.

    • 2

      Choose a specific discipline or type of horse you want to breed for. General breeders are not nearly as successful as a breeder who specializes in a specific breed of horse or who breeds for a specific discipline. Do extensive research on any areas you want to specialize in and look at the competition. See how successful they are, who they market to and what bloodlines they are breeding.

    • 3

      Locate a breeding facility large enough for future expansion. A horse breeding business must have enough acreage to support a herd of broodmares, foals and the stallions. A safe, clean barn must be able to hold all of the pregnant mares when it comes time for birthing. Access to local veterinarians and equine medical facilities is another good idea.

    • 4

      Develop a business plan for the first few years and for the future with your horse breeding business. A business plan helps keep you on track and can be used as a guide to follow.

    • 5

      Purchase horses to begin your breeding program. Using proven broodmares and proven stallions that have produced champion horses is the best way to quickly begin a successful breeding business. Unproven mares and stallions will take several years to prove their worth.

    • 6

      Hire good employees for breeding and foaling season. Make sure all employees are very experienced around horses and follow all safety rules to keep themselves and the horses safe.