..:Choosing a Stud Male::..


When choosing a stud service, always consider the following:

Does the stud you are considering have any progeny?
If so, have a look at them and see if they are an improvement on their dams. If not, look at other close relatives (his father, mother, sibling and half siblings). If they are of good quality, the chances are this untried stud will also sire good cria - and his fee may be cheaper because he is "unproven".

Does your prospective sire have a good pedigree?
While the inclusion of top animals in a pedigree is not a guarantee of quality in the animal concerned, having recognised industry icon studs included in his pedigree can give an indication of his breeding performance.


What are the physical attributes of the stud?
He should have good, even if not outstanding conformation, with no genetic or conformational faults. His current fleece micron is not necessarily relevant at this stage.


What is his stud fee?
This should match his quality and the quality of the cria he is siring. The average stud fee for a 2nd level stud start around $600, while premium studs start around $1000.