Linear profiling in different studbooks

The revision process of the assessment of conformation and performance traits in horses has begun in several countries, and the change to more detailed and more objective documentation will surely proceed. The advantages of linear profiling have been recognized by several studbooks, and innovative approaches like electronic recording using mobile devices can help overcoming the challenges of implementing the new system. To support interested studbooks in their development towards improved phenotyping, further information on linear profiling can be found in publications; details regarding the linear systems used in the praxis are provided in the overview and in the information material of the individuals studbooks provided below.

• Oldenburg:
  comprehensive linear scheme for conformation and performance traits; routine use with mobile data collection (tablet PC; own program development on the basis of the scientific studies supported by the Oldenburg studbooks in 2011-2013)
  Detailed information on the praxis of linear profiling in the Oldenburg studbooks (OL and OS) can be found on their website:http://www.oldenburger-pferde.net.
  scientific studies: Kramer A (2012), Duensing J (2014), Voigt A-L (2014)
• Holstein:
  linear scheme for conformation and performance traits; routine use with mobile data collection (tablet PC; program based on the Oldenburg linear system)
  scientific studies: Drückes A (2010).
• Belgian Warmblood:
  linear scheme for conformation and performance traits; routine use with manual data recording (score sheet)
  scientific studies: Rustin M, Janssens S, Buys N, Gengler N, 2009. Multi-trait animal model estimation of genetic parameters for linear type and gait traits in the Belgian warmblood horse. Journal of Animal Breeding and Genetics 126, 378-386 (http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1439-0388.2008.00798.x).
• Danish Warmblood:
  linear scheme for conformation and performance traits in dressage and jumping horses; routine use with manual data recording (score sheet)
  Details on the practice of linear profiling in Denmark can be found on the website of Dansk Varmblod:
  http://www.varmblod.dk (for Denmark, in Danish) and www.varmblod.dk/US (for USA / other countries, in English).

• Swedish Warmblood:
  linear schemes for conformation and performance traits in dressage and jumping horses; routine use at performance tests for young horses and stallion approvals with up to now manual data recording (score sheet), change to electronic recording planned for 2015
  Details on the practice of linear profiling in Sweden can be found - in Swedish only - on the website of the ASVH (Avelsföreningen för Svenska Varmblodiga Hästen):www.asvh.se.

• Irish Sporthorse:
  linear scheme for conformation and performance traits for the Irish Sport Horse and Irish Draught Horse
  Details on the practice of linear profiling in the Irish studbooks for riding and sport horses can be found on the website of Horse Sport Ireland:
  http://www.horsesportireland.ie for Irish Sport Horse and Irish Draught Horse.