Summary
Roles of the horse breeder
Take care of the horses
Every day, the breeder distributes the feed to the animals, according to the dosage in force for each breed and each age. He cleans the stalls and performs simple treatments:
- grooming;
- foot care…
The breeder accompanies them in their growth: in particular, he makes them do training exercises.
Control their reproduction
The breeder often contributes to the improvement of a breed. It follows:
- heats of mares;
- the protrusion;
- gestation ;
- passes ultrasounds, until the birth of the foals.
Then sell them
Generally the breeder sells his animals for training or for slaughter. But more and more it develops tourist activities. Even if the breeding is different from the equestrian center, it can offer to give riding lessons, or rides, provided you have the riding guide certificate.
Working conditions of the horse breeder
A farmer
The breeder does not only manage the care of his horses. He often owns land, even other animals. He therefore necessarily lives in the countryside, works outdoors every day, whatever the weather.
In a stud
The breeder can also be an employee in a stud farm. In this case, his schedules are more fixed. He is in charge of feeding the horses, giving them first aid, but he has no responsibility.
How much does a horse breeder earn?
At the start of his career, the salaried horse breeder receives the minimum wage, around €1,300 gross per month.
Established on his own account, he can earn up to €3,000 gross per month, after several years of experience.
Training to become a horse breeder
Before the baccalaureate
This profession is accessible with:
- a CAPA equine trainer;
- a horse-riding BEPA;
- or an equine BPA.
Baccalaureate standard
It is advisable to continue with:
- a vocational baccalaureate in farm management and management, specializing in “horse production”;
- or a CGEA pro baccalaureate (driving and managing the farm).
After the baccalaureate :
The BTSA animal productions, mention management of equine breeding and development of young horses, is a diploma which is prepared in 2 years, in alternation.
Qualifications needed to become a horse breeder
Know the horses perfectly
The breeder must have precise knowledge of horses, both physically and psychologically. He must understand their behavior and maintain an emotional relationship with them.
To be vigilant
Horse breeding requires constant attention. In addition to his agricultural work, the breeder takes care of the stable every day. When an animal shows worrying signs, it should call a veterinarian.
His job also requires handling heavy loads, he must be in good physical and athletic condition, especially if he offers riding and training activities.
Be a good manager
The breeder must manage:
- its breeding;
- its accounts;
- its relations with its suppliers, purchasers or employees.
Content updated on 05/31/2012
Our tips:
The breeder can develop tourist activities and pony or horse riding lessons. He must thus pass a state professional patent, or hire a monitor who has this diploma.