Horse breeding in crisis: decline in mares, foals and coverings

Horse breeding in Germany recorded a noticeable decline in 2024. According to the German Equestrian Federation (FN), the number of registered riding horse mares fell to 50,195 - a drop of around four percent compared to the previous year. The number of studbook registrations also fell to 8,000, which is even lower than the 2017 low. The number of registered foals fell by around ten percent to 25,594. Dr. Klaus Miesner, Managing Director of Breeding at the FN, blames economic uncertainties and rising costs for this development.

There is also a reluctance to cover mares: with 23,809 mares covered, there is a threat of a further decline in foal numbers in 2025. Pony and small horse breeds are particularly badly affected, with foal numbers already falling by seven percent in 2024. In contrast, heavy warmbloods and cold-blooded animals are recording slight increases - supported by targeted support measures for endangered livestock breeds.

Parallel to the decline in mares, the number of registered stallions is also falling, with the exception of heavy warmbloods and cold-blooded horses. 2024 was also the last year of stallion performance testing under the previous system. A new testing procedure will come into force from 2025.

All figures from the FN's breeding section can be downloaded free of charge from the FN Shop. fn-press/Hb

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