Breeding Contract Checklist
A practical outline of common items breeders may want to address in stallion service, live cover, shipped semen, or frozen semen agreements.
This resource is intended as a breeder planning aid, not legal advice. Breeders should review any contract with a qualified equine attorney or appropriate professional before use.
Parties & Horse Information
Mare owner, stallion owner, horse names, registration numbers, breed status, genetic testing, contact information.
Breeding Method
Live cover, fresh cooled, frozen semen, AI, collection facility, shipment expectations, veterinary coordination.
Fees & Payment
Stud fee, booking fee, collection fees, chute fees, shipping fees, veterinary costs, due dates, refund policy.
Mare Requirements
Health Requirements
Culture/cytology if required, vaccination, age/condition, reproductive history, farrier/deworming if mare is coming on site.
Live Foal Guarantee
Definition of live foal, rebreed terms, what happens if the mare is open, aborts, or the foal does not survive. Contracts should define what counts as a live foal and state what rights the mare owner has if the mare is open, aborts, or the foal does not survive.
Responsibilities & Risk
Transportation, injury, disease, veterinary decisions, handling, liability, timing, and communication.
Breeder’s Certificate / Registration
When the breeder’s certificate or registration paperwork is released, and what must be paid or completed first.
Special Terms
Substitute mare, substitute stallion, semen availability, frozen semen dose limits, non-transferability, death or injury of mare/stallion, and jurisdiction if needed.