The life of a horse breeder can be very exciting and rewarding. Whether you choose to be a horse breeder at your own facility or manage a breeding program at a well known farm, you will need experience that you have acquired from growing up with horses as a child to getting a bachelor of science in equine studies. A combination of both hands-on experience and book knowledge will be beneficial to your quest.
If you decide to start your own breeding business, you probably have firsthand experience and knowledge, plus a love for horses to start with. No matter where your knowledge comes from, the best way to start is to apply for a paid apprentice position at a breeding farm. Even if your goal is to have your own breeding facility, take the time to learn from others. Spending a couple of breeding seasons at a farm can teach you the fundamentals of the care of the mares, their cycling patterns, types of breeding coverage, the foaling process and the weaning process. These are all important aspects of being a horse breeder that you will need to know. An apprenticeship will allow you the opportunity to learn firsthand from the experts and experience every aspect of what is involved in being a horse breeder.
Working for an established breeding farm will help you decide if you would like to start your own breeding farm or if you would get as much pleasure working for someone else. Having a career as a horse breeder can lead to various other job advancements such as farm manager, breeding manager, foal marketing and stallion promotion. The options are endless and can develop into a fulfilling career.
Owning and operating a breeding farm will require an investment, starting with a horse barn that can accommodate foaling out mares, adequate pastures for mares and foals, and the knowledge you have gained through acquired experience. A career as a horse breeder will require a lot of hard work and dedication. There are large breeding farms nationwide that offer great job opportunities just waiting for you.
