ADDITIONAL DNA TESTS The MHR offers additional tests to determine both coat color and genetic disorders carried by Friesians and Morgans. Genetic testing is an essential tool for responsible breeding. It provides valuable insights that help improve the health, quality, and marketability of horses while ensuring ethical breeding practices.

DNA Tests for Disorders: Friesian Health Panel: Hydrocephalus, Dwarfism, and Distichiasis

The Friesian Health Panel bundles together the three known tests for genetic diseases found in the Friesian horse. Because the genes are recessive, all first-generation Moriesians are unaffected health-wise but have a 50% chance of being carriers.These are recessive genes, which means that both the sire and dam must carry them for the foal to be affected. Second-generation and ¾ Moriesians could be affected.

1. Friesian Horse Hydrocephalus Hydrocephalus is an inherited condition in Friesian and Friesian crosses characterized by excessive accumulation of fluid in the brain that results in severe cranial distension.

2. Friesian Horse Dwarfism Dwarfism in Friesians is an inherited disorder characterized by a disproportionate growth with reduced bone length of limbs and ribs while the size of the head and length of the back are normal.

3. Distichiasis Distichiasis is a condition in which the eyelashes grow from an abnormal position on the edges of the eyelids. These misplaced lashes can contact the cornea (clear ‘window’ of the front of the eye), leading to irritation and corneal ulcers, which can impact vision.

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