EL REGISTRO FRISÓN
Understanding the Elements of the KFPS Registry
The first step to purchasing a Friesian horse with confidence is understanding how the KFPS organization and its Studbook rules operate.
Horse registry systems are often complex, and the KFPS is no exception. This system includes various levels to classify both horses and their registrations, aiming to preserve and improve the Friesian breed. Below is an explanation of the KFPS Studbook system to help you understand a Friesian horse's registration status.
Main Section of the KFPS Genealogical Book
Friesian horse breeding within the KFPS system is strictly regulated. A horse can only be registered in the Foal Book of the KFPS Main Section (commonly referred to as the "Studbook") if its dam is registered in the same section and was bred to a KFPS-approved stallion, known as an "Approved Stallion." In North America, there are 20 to 25 approved stallions available for breeding. Additionally, in the Netherlands, many approved stallions are available for artificial insemination using frozen semen. An approved stallion is identified by a three-digit number following its name, such as Hessel 480 or Norbert 444.
BOOK B I
In some countries, the limited availability of approved stallions presents a challenge. To encourage breeding in these regions, the KFPS established a secondary registry called B-Book I. Foals can be registered in this book if their sire is an approved stallion, but with a restricted number of breeding permissions under specific conditions. In North America, selected Foal Book stallions were granted breeding permissions until 1992. However, in Central America, some Foal Book stallions still retain limited breeding privileges.
Horses registered in B-Book I tend to cost less than those in the Main Section. It's important for potential buyers to recognize the horse's documentation. Distinguishing between horses registered in the Studbook and B-Book can sometimes be challenging based solely on the documents. To identify a horse's status, look for a Foal Book stallion in its pedigree, marked as "V.B." or "vb," which indicates registration in the Foal Book.
BOOK B II
In addition to B-Book I, there is B-Book II, which is designated for purebred Friesian horses born from Foal Book stallions not approved by the KFPS. These horses are generally more affordable than those in the Main Section. B-Book II horses are identified by their "Black and White Papers." While they are not part of the highest KFPS registry, they can be a cost-effective option.
Rise of B-Book Descendants
Under KFPS rules, the offspring of a mare registered in B-Book II can advance to B-Book I if the mare is bred to an approved stallion. Similarly, descendants of B-Book I mares can transition to the Main Studbook after three consecutive generations of approved breeding.
CLASSIFICATION IN THE REGISTRY
A horse's value is often tied to its registration classification and any awards or predicates it has received. Generally, you can expect to pay more for a Model mare than a Star mare, and more for a Star mare than a Studbook mare. Horses initially registered in the Foal Book can transition to the Studbook following an inspection at three or four years of age. However, some owners, particularly those of geldings, may choose not to pursue inspection. A mature Foal Book horse with potential can still be a good investment. Stallions not approved for breeding are not classified within the registry and must either be gelded or remain in the Foal Book.
COUSINS
Horses are evaluated by KFPS judges based on their movement and conformation. Both foals and adult horses may receive premiums (quality recognitions). Horses displaying superior quality and movement are awarded a First Premium, while those of lesser quality receive a Second or Third Premium. Horses that receive no premium may have various reasons, such as physical defects, temporary health issues on the day of evaluation, or unacceptable markings.
PREDICATES
In addition to premiums, horses may earn predicates that reflect their quality or the quality of their offspring. Predicates enhance a horse's value, and these horses are generally more expensive. The predicates include Star, Crown, Model, Sport, Sport Elite, and Performance Mother.
CERTIFICATES OF REGISTRATION
The KFPS issues a registration certificate for all horses listed in its Studbook. This document certifies that a horse has a recognized pedigree but does not grant additional rights or serve as proof of ownership. Buyers should always obtain a signed sales contract from the seller. The certificate does not belong to the horse's owner and may be revoked by the KFPS under certain circumstances.
While most Friesian horses are registered with the KFPS, other organizations also register Friesians and crossbreds, and their guidelines may differ from those of the KFPS. Horses initially registered with other organizations may sometimes be readmitted into the KFPS registry, although dual registration is not permitted.
Horses born before 1997 are identified by a tattoo on their tongue, while those born after that year have an electronic identification chip that can be read with a compatible scanner.