Ready for show season: how to prepare your Friesian

It’s May, the sun is shining again, and the trailers are ready. The inspection season has officially begun! 🎉

Whether you’re a first-time participant or a seasoned breeder, thorough preparation really makes all the difference. In this blog, you’ll find the most important tips, an explanation of the grading system, and the complete 2026 breeding calendar at the bottom.

Training: Build up gradually

The biggest pitfall? Cramming in a quick workout just three days before the competition. It’s better to start a targeted training program six weeks in advance and use that final week for rest and fine-tuning.

• Practice show-trot in short bursts. It’s better to do 4 sets of 10 meters at a brilliant pace than 50 meters of huffing and puffing.

• Work on posture and contact, as judges look for a self-carrying, balanced gait.

• Alternate between outdoor rides and lunging to keep your horse mentally alert.

Nutrition & Fitness

Friesians are easy to feed, and that’s where the risk lies. A show horse should look muscular, not round. Use good hay as a base, targeted protein for muscle building, and a scoop of flaxseed or oil for that glossy sheen. Not sure about the horse’s condition? Ask an experienced breeder to take a look—it’s easy to get blinded by your own perspective. 😉

Presentation: shine, manes, and that black glow

• Wash your horse with a good shampoo for black coats.

• Apply conditioner to the mane and tail to keep them tangle-free.

• Do not trim the ears, nose hairs, or hock hairs until just before the inspection.

• Trim and blacken the hooves on the day of the event.

• Don't forget to dress appropriately: neat, dark clothing and sturdy shoes.

Bonus: 1st, 2nd, 3rd, or no bonus?

At a KFPS inspection, each horse receives a rating, which is called a "premiëring." The system is simple once you understand it:

• 1st prize (Star)🥇 for a horse that clearly stands out. Strong breed characteristics, beautiful conformation, ground-covering movement, and that distinctive presence. This is a horse you can be proud of.

• 2nd prize (Star)🥈 for a fine Friesian horse with several strong points and minor flaws. Definitely a great result and nothing to be ashamed of—quite the opposite!

• 3rd prize 🥉 for a horse that meets the basic requirements but falls short of the breeding goal in a number of areas.

• No premium if a horse does not fully meet the KFPS criteria. This often concerns conformation, movement, or breed type. It’s not pleasant to receive, but it’s also instructive: you immediately know what to look for in breeding or selection.

Important to know: A first-prize mare or foal may be eligible for the "Ster" predicate (provided all other requirements are met), which adds value to both your horse and your breeding program.

Tip: Always ask the judge for feedback afterward. You’ll get valuable information that will really help you next time.

Mental preparation

Your nerves will travel through the reins to your horse. Plan your trip well in advance, bring someone you trust, and enjoy yourself. You’re standing in the ring with your Friesian—that alone is something to be proud of. 💛

📅 Breeding Calendar 2026

Here’s a list of the Dutch breeding days. Be sure to mark them on your calendar!

Plus: Central Inspection 2026 ⭐

The highlight of the season will take place from September 9 to 12, 2026, in Harich.

Tip: The complete and always up-to-date calendar (including studbook, location, IBOP, and international inspections) can be found at kfps.nl/keuringen

In conclusion

A show is more than just a competition. It’s an opportunity to showcase your Friesian at its best and to enjoy the breed we all love so much. Good luck, and hopefully we’ll see you in the ring! 🐎🖤

P.S. Do you have a Friesian that has passed its inspection and is looking for a new home? List it on Friesianhorseworld.com and instantly reach thousands of Friesian enthusiasts worldwide. 🌍