Equine Genetics 101: Genetic Concepts and Applications

Learn about the basics of equine genetics and the different applications they have in equine performance.
Share
Favorite
Close

No account yet? Register

ADVERTISEMENT

Even for the most knowledgeable horseman, equine genetics can be a confusing topic to grasp. Trying to conceptualize how genetics can be applied to equine performance can be even more confusing. But the attendees at the 2011 Thoroughbred Pedigree, Genetics, and Performance Conference, held Sept. 7-8 in Lexington, Ky., were in luck as Jamie MacLeod, VMD, PhD, and Ernie Bailey, PhD, presented an overview of equine genetics and the different applications they have in equine performance.

MacLeod began by confirming that there is, in fact, a link between genetics and performance in horses. Genetics is the basis of selective breeding programs, and it’s generally the point upon which the financial value of bloodstock is based, he explained.

"Selecting parents (sire and dam) that hopefully will pass superior genetic determinants to their offspring (foal) represents the planned breeding strategy we use to enhance our chances of producing a truly outstanding individual," he added.

In producing an equine athlete, MacLeod explained, while a large number of genetic variables are involved in "something as complex as the performance of a racehorse," the equally large number of nongenetic variables, such as environmental factors, also influence the ability–or inability–of a horse to reach his or her peak athletic potential

Create a free account with TheHorse.com to view this content.

TheHorse.com is home to thousands of free articles about horse health care. In order to access some of our exclusive free content, you must be signed into TheHorse.com.

Start your free account today!

Already have an account?
and continue reading.

Share

Written by:

Erica Larson, former news editor for The Horse, holds a degree in journalism with an external specialty in equine science from Michigan State University in East Lansing. A Massachusetts native, she grew up in the saddle and has dabbled in a variety of disciplines including foxhunting, saddle seat, and mounted games. Currently, Erica competes in eventing with her OTTB, Dorado.

Related Articles

Stay on top of the most recent Horse Health news with

FREE weekly newsletters from TheHorse.com

Sponsored Content

Weekly Poll

sponsored by:

Where do you primarily feed your horse?
294 votes · 294 answers

Readers’ Most Popular

Sign In

Don’t have an account? Register for a FREE account here.

Need to update your account?

You need to be logged in to fill out this form

Create a free account with TheHorse.com!