Friesian Stallion Growth and Development

Data were collected from privately owned young Friesian stallions. In the first part of the study, the preparation period, 38 stallions at the age of 3 (n = 31) or 4 (n = 7) years were allowed to participate by their owners. In the second part of the study, the 70-day test, 16 stallions at the age of 3 (n = 13) or 4 (n = 3) were selected by the KFPS to participate. During the entire study (preparation period and 70-day test), horses were kept at individual stables and were fed an individual diet consisting of roughage and pellets. Water was provided at libitum. The Animal Ethics Committee of Utrecht University approved all research procedures (reference number 5204-1-04, approval date 24 June 2020). Written owners’ informed consent was also obtained.