Genetic evaluation of the traditional characteristics of the Irish
Draught horse population
This project aimed to develop a genetic evaluation for the worldwide Irish Draught Horse population
in order to provide objective information to breeders about the traditional characteristcs of this rare
breed. Studbook inspections provide a large amount of information on Irish Draughts encompassing
a wide variety of traits. The linear profiles of 966 Irish Draught horses profiled since 2010 were
analysed. Thirty eight conformation and movement traits were analysed using single trait animal
model BLUP. The majority of traits showed moderate to high heritabilities showing that selection
should be effective in achieving genetic improvement. An analysis of genetic trends confirmed that
there has been erosion of some of the traditional characteristics of the Irish Draught horse in recent
years, however, the implementation of a genetic evaluation system will provide additional
information for breeders to help halt and reverse any erosion. The routine publication of genetic
profiles for stallions based on the linear profiles of their progeny is feasible in the near future.
Project Coordinator: Ms Alison Corbally