How to Become a Breeder in Ontario
Ontario offers one of the strongest and most rewarding environments for Thoroughbred breeders in Canada. With robust incentive programs, a supportive community, and a thriving marketplace, new breeders have every opportunity to build a successful and sustainable breeding program.
Whether you are starting with one mare or planning to grow a larger operation, this guide outlines how to begin your breeding journey, with a focus on Ontario’s programs and advantages.
Interested? Connect With Us
If you are curious about getting started or want guidance tailored to your goals, we encourage you to reach out and ask about our Breeder Buddy program.
Breeder Buddy pairs new or aspiring breeders with experienced members of the Ontario Thoroughbred community. It is a friendly, supportive way to:
- Ask questions
- Learn the basics
- Get advice on mares, stallions, and farms
- Understand Ontario’s incentive programs
- Build confidence as you begin your breeding journey
Whether you are exploring the idea or ready to take your first step, we are here to help!
Contact us to get connected with a Breeder Buddy. 416-675-3602 [email protected]
Learn the Foundations of Thoroughbred Breeding
Successful breeders build knowledge in:
- Pedigrees and bloodlines
- Conformation and physical development
- Nutrition and young horse care
- Sales cycles and market trends
- Registration requirements :The Canadian Thoroughbred Horse Society (National Office)
- Ontario incentive programs
Understanding these fundamentals help you make informed decisions that support the long-term success of your foals.
Why Breed in Ontario?
Ontario offers meaningful financial and competitive advantages for breeders, including:
- Ontario Sired Program: Foals sired by Registered Ontario stallions are eligible for restricted races and bonuses in Ontario racing.
- Thoroughbred Improvement Program (TIP): TIP provides awards and incentives to Ontario breeders, owners, and stallion owners, helping strengthen the local industry.
- Breeder Awards: Ontario breeders earn awards when their Ontario‑bred and/or Ontario-sired horses perform well at Ontario racetracks.
- A Strong Marketplace: The CTHS Ontario Canadian Premier Yearling Sale is a proven marketplace where buyers seek quality Ontario‑bred horses with access to provincial incentives.
These programs make Ontario one of the most supportive jurisdictions for new breeders.
Choose Your Entry Path
There are several ways to begin breeding:
Purchase or Retire a Racehorse
Many breeders begin by retiring a mare from racing and transitioning her into a broodmare career.
Start with One Broodmare
Purchase or lease a mare and produce one foal per year. This is the most common and cost‑effective way to begin.
Partner with a Farm
Co‑ownership or breeding partnerships allow you to share costs and benefit from experienced farm management.
Develop Your Own Breeding Operation
If you have land and resources, establishing a small breeding farm gives you full control and room to grow.
Selecting a Broodmare
Your mare is the foundation of your program. When choosing a broodmare, consider:
- Her female family and pedigree strength
- Race record or production record
- Correct conformation
- Fertility and foaling history
- Compatibility with Ontario stallions
- Potential to produce Ontario‑sired foals eligible for TIP and breeder awards
Mares can be purchased privately, through mixed or digital sales, or through lease agreements.
Choosing a Stallion
Breeding to an Ontario stallion unlocks provincial incentives and strengthens the local industry. When selecting a stallion, evaluate:
- Pedigree compatibility
- Stallion performance and progeny results
- Stud fee and expected foal value
- Eligibility for Ontario Sired bonuses and TIP awards

Many new breeders begin by using local stallions to maximize program benefits.
Foaling and Raising your Ontario-Bred Foal
You can foal out and raise your horse:
- At an Ontario boarding or breeding farm
- At a specialized foaling facility
- On your own property
From birth to yearling, proper nutrition, handling, farrier care, and growth monitoring are essential. Ontario farms offer experienced staff and established programs to support healthy development.
Selling your Ontario-Bred
Ontario breeders typically sell their horses as:
- Weanlings
- Yearlings
- Two‑year‑olds in training
The CTHS Ontario Canadian Premier Yearling Sale is the primary marketplace for Ontario‑bred yearlings and attracts buyers seeking horses eligible for provincial incentives. Some breeders choose to retain their foals to race and earn breeder awards.
