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AqHR

Why should I register my horse?

The American Quarter Horse Registry provides an opportunity for breeders and owners to register their horses when they otherwise may not have the means to do so. With the huge popularity of the American Quarter Horse, and its tremendous versatility, it has only been natural for breeders to cross their quarter horses with other breeds. The temperament and athleticism of the American Quarter horse, along with its beautiful conformation and gorgeous colors, which can be passed on to these crosses, makes the results both unique and special.

There are tremendous benefits to having your horse registered including:

  • Proof of ownership
  • Provides pedigree which shows how the horse is bred
  • Provides age verification
  • Adds value to your horse
  • Creates a record of past ownership and geological whereabouts
  • The horse becomes eligible for our “Ride” programs and other annual awards
  • Registration certificate is required to show a horse in any futurity, as well as enter him/her in incentive programs, such as Future Fortunes, Mare Power, etc

The qualification for registration is simple: at least one parent must be AQHA or APHA registered, hence our original name “Half Quarter Horse Registry” (now the AqHR.) This one, simple guideline allows us to retain the integrity of the breed while enabling the registration of horses that are possibly turned away from other associations or registries.

While we do have many crosses, we also have numerous full-blooded quarter horses. Because AQHA and APHA have several strict guidelines, we receive countless referrals directly from AQHA because they will deny a horse registration for the following reasons:

  • The horse is a cross between an AQHA or APHA horse and another breed
  • The horse is a cross between an AQHA or APHA horse and an unregistered quarter or paint horse
  • The horse is a cross between an AQHA or APHA horse and a quarter or paint horse with lost papers
  • The horse is a cross between an AQHA or APHA horse and a registered quarter horse with an international association that AQHA or APHA is not affiliated with
  • The horse is a cross between two appendix AQHA horses, resulting in too much thoroughbred blood
  • The horse has too much white. AQHA will not accept a horse with white above the hock or knee.
  • The horse is a color that AQHA or APHA does not acknowledge or accept
  • One or both of the parents is deceased and does not have a DNA verification with AQHA
  • While AQHA and APHA will gladly register any qualifying horse, the cost reaches several hundred dollars if the horse is registered at an older age. Our highest registration fees do NOT exceed $80 (standard registration).

We would love to welcome you and horse horses to the AqHR and if you have questions or would like to discuss your specific situation, please feel free to call our office at (254) 592-7827 and an AqHR representative will be happy to assist you.

Does my horse qualify for registration?

  • Simple answer: your horse qualifies if a AT LEAST ONE parent (sire and/ or dam) is AQHA or APHA registered (or registered with one of their international affiliates)
  • Complex answer: your horse MAY qualify if it is verifiably a MINIMUM of half quarter horse according to pedigree and/ or DNA. (Ex.: your horse may be a cross between two Appaloosas (ApHC) that are each half quarter horse. OR your horse may be a cross between an Appaloosa and a half Arabian each having a sufficient amount of quarter horse in their pedigree. OR you’re horse may be the result of an AqHR x AqHR)
  • Hardship cases: if your horse does not meet any of the above requirements, you may apply through The American DNA Registry for a breed analysis registration certificate.

How much does registration cost?

Applicants must have a current membership for any of the AqHR services. Membership fees are as follows:

  • Individual membership (1 year) ———————————————-$40.00
  • Family or ranch membership (1 year) ————————————-$55.00
  • Individual lifetime membership ———————————————$215.00
  • Family or ranch lifetime membership————————————-$315.00
  • If outside the USA, add $20 to membership—————————–$20.00

Registration fees are dependent on the age of the horse and are priced as follows:

  • Colt or filly under 11 months (NOW all inclusive fees, including the DNA test)
    • Online application  ————————————————————$119.00
    • Downloaded app submitted by email or postal mail———-$139.00
  • 11 months or older
    • Online application  ————————————————————$159.00
    • Downloaded app submitted by email or postal mail  ——–$189.00

Additional and Optional Services

  • Duplicate or replacement certificate ———————————————-$50.00
  • Purchase pedigree from AQHA or APHA database ————————-$10.00
    (you must have an exact registered name or number)
  • Transfer of ownership  ————————————————— ————-$35.00
  • Feature photo printed on registration certificate—————————$35.00
  • Addition of breed analysis  (per horse)  ————————-—————$48.00
  • Rush Order (10-day turnaround after DNA results received) ———-$20.00

What forms will I need to send in to register my horse?

We make the process of registering your horse quick and simple to do through our website. Before you begin, please make sure to have the following accessible on your computer because you will be asked to upload several documents and photographs to complete your registration:

  • Your AqHR Membership ID (If you are new to AqHR, this is not necessary)
  • A Copy of the AQHA Registered Parent’s Papers
  • A Copy of the Non-AQHA Parent’s Papers (if applicable)
  • Registration Names and Numbers for your Horse’s Sire and/or Dam
  • 4 Pictures of your Horse (front, back, and both sides)
  • DNA test (now standard with all new registrations)

If you would prefer to have a registration packet sent to you directly via USPS or email, please contact our office.

What can I do if I don't have a copy of the sire or dam’s registration certificate?

  • If you’re an AQHA member, you can access their database to get a copy of the AQHA registered sire or dams pedigree.
  • If you’re not an AQHA member or cannot access their database online, AqHR can do it on your behalf for $10 per pedigree.
  • As a last resort, All-Breed Pedigree can be used in lieu of registration certificates, but is not suggested because registration numbers are not included. It is sufficient, however, for horses that are not registered and do not have registered horses in their lineage.

Should I DNA type my horse?

DNA is now standard with ALL new applications beginning February of 2023.  DNA is the most valuable part of your horse’s file and is  ESPECIALLY helpful if the horse is a futurity or incentive program prospect. OR if you have plans to breed the horse. Parental verification adds credibility and value to your horse, even if for just the sire OR dam.

Can I register my full Quarter Horse? What if AQHA denied my registration?

The AqHR registers full Quarter Horses almost daily. As a matter of fact, most of them come as a direct referral from AQHA who we work with very closely. The AqHR offers an alternative when AQHA denies a horse registration or the horse’s owner does not wish to incur the expenses of registering with AQHA.

AQHA may deny your ability to register your horse for numerous reasons including, but not limited to, the following:

  • excessive white on the horse or in areas that AQHA does not approve of
  • too much thoroughbred bred back into appendix lines
  • lack of DNA for either parent
  • horse is older and it is too costly through AQHA
  • dispute with breeder or stallion owner
  • the horse is a clone

If you have questions or would like to discuss your specific situation, please feel free to call our office at (254) 592-7827 and an AqHR representative will be happy to assist you.

Can I show my AqHR horse in AQHA shows?

No. AQHA is the most strictly governed purebred association. Only AQHA horses can be shown in AQHA shows.

What performance associations and programs recognize AqHR Reg. papers?

It is our knowledge that AqHR certificates are recognized everywhere (with the exception of breed-specific shows and programs). However, we suggest that you check with the specific association, directly. BFA, Future Fortunes, and Mare Power DO accept AqHR certificates

What do I get with a membership?

  • You are able to register horses with AqHR and purchase certificates of ownership
  • You and your AqHR horses can participate in our Half to Ride and Half to Perform programs
  • AqHR Members have access to several benefits and discounts with our affiliates
  • AqHR “Plus” members have access to even more benefits.

What does my horse’s AqHR registration number say about him/ her?

Example Registration Number – A006702-QA ¾.

  1. The first letter indicates what classification your horse is. Class A is a horse that has parental verification for both the sire and dam. Class B is a horse that has parental verification for only one parent. Class C is a horse that does not have parental verification.
  2. The numeric digits indicate which horse yours is. In the above example, that horse is the 6702nd horse to be registered with AqHR.
  3. The letters following the number tell what breed cross your horse is. The first letter will always be Q, for quarter horse, since each horse must descend from at least 50% quarter horse lineage. The second letter will tell what other breed is included in the lineage. Scroll down to view the current breed codes.
  4. The fraction tells how much verifiable quarter horse is in your horse’s blood

Why should I add a photo to my horse's certificate?

This makes your horse more identifiable which is especially important for futurity horses, when selling a horse, and in the unfortunate event of a lost or stolen horse.

What options do I have if I don't know anything about my horse’s sire or dam, or if my horse falls short of the requirements?

  • You may opt to purchase a certificate of ownership. This includes current owner, history, age, color, and markings.
  • You may DNA register your horse. This is similar to a certificate of ownership, but is tied to a DNA case number for reference.

How do I transfer an AqHR horse into my name?

To transfer ownership of an AqHR registered horse, fill out a transfer report and mail it to our office with the original registration certificate. You also need to include a membership app or renewal, if your membership is not current.

If I register my horse with AqHR, can the offspring then be registered with AQHA?

No. AQHA is a purebred registry and the most strictly governed breed association.

Does AqHR have any international representatives?

Yes!

  • South America: Marco Palavicini
  • Germany, Austria, & Switzerland: Singrid Kramer
  • If you are or someone you know is interested in becoming rep, please contact us.

Do I need a breeder’s certificate for my horse?

A breeder’s certificate is needed for horses under one year of age. We also prefer to have one on file for any and all horses whenever possible.

What can I do if I cannot obtain the necessary signatures for the breeder’s cert?

Contact our office if you need an exception to this requirement. Sometimes just one signature is sufficient (dam OR sire owner). These requests will be handled on a case to case basis.

Can information be added or changed on a horse’s certificate after he/ she is registered?

Yes. Almost any information or change can be added at a later date. If a horse is spayed or gelded, this change is done at no charge. A name change is $25. Most other changes are considered ‘replacement papers’, at $20. Current membership is required.

Who should I list as the ‘breeder’ for my horse?

The breeder is the owner of the DAM at the time of foaling.

Does my horse still qualify if the sire and/or dam has an appendix certificate?

Yes. Appendix certificates are still viewed by our office as AQHA certificates.

What ‘class’ (classification) will my horse be registered under?

  • If the horse is DNA typed and has parental verification for both parents: class A
  • If the horse is DNA typed and has parental verification for only one parent: class B
  • If the horse is not DNA typed: class C

ADNAR

Does my animal qualify for registration?

Yes. We have several different classes and divisions.

ALL animals will receive a registration certificate that includes the following:

  • Name – Registration number
  • DNA case number (your animal’s true identity)
  • Full genetic marker report
  • Breeder info
  • Owner info
  • Breed or breed cross
  • Color – Markings
  • Sex
  • Year of birth
  • Place or region of birth

Animals with verifiable mother and/ or father will also have the following included on the certificate:

  • Pedigree (partial or full, as available)
  • Parental verification (for mother and/ or father, as available)
  • Date of birth

Do I need a membership?

No. The registration fee is all inclusive. There are no memberships and it includes the cost of the DNA test for the horse in which you are registering.

What are the different divisions and classes?

Divisions (commonly referred to as ‘books’)

  • Equine
  • Bovine
  • Swine
  • Goat
  • Sheep
  • Canine
  • Feline

Exotic Classes (within divisions)

  • Purebred
  • Distinct cross
  • Grade cross
  • Grade (no pedigree)
  • Clone

How do I register my animal?

  1. Download the registration form from the website. This can be filled out and mailed or emailed. OR
  2. Submit your applications and info directly through our site
  3. If you would like an application sent to you, directly, via USPS or email, please contact our office.

How much does it cost?

You may refer to the application (prices are located at the bottom of the second page)
The price listed is an all inclusive price, which includes the registration and DNA test.
There are no membership fees.

The age of the animal does NOT change the fee:
Standard certificate $195
Premium certificate with Photo $225
Standard certificate without a pedigree $135
Premium photo certificate without a pedigree $165

What do I need to include to register an animal?

  • Completed registration application
  • At least 4 photos of the horse (front, back, one of each side, close up of any brands)
  • Copies of sire and/or dam certificates, as available

Should I DNA type my horse?

  • The ADNAR registration fee includes a DNA test. In some circumstances, a minimal additional fee may be required for a second analysis. DNA is especially important if the horse is a futurity or incentive program prospect OR if you have plans to breed the horse
  • (If your horse already has a report, please include it with the app)
  • Parental verification adds credibility and value to your horse, even if for just sire OR dam

Will the DNA test reveal who the sire and/ or dam is?

NO – The DNA test will either provide parental verification with the case number of the parent(s) (to test against) OR it will provide a breed analysis if your animal has an unknown history or pedigree.

What does the breed analysis do?

It reveals the top three breeds in your horse’s ancestry, with the most prominent listed first.

How does the process work?

Simply submit your application through the app or our website. Once we receive the completed application and payment, we will order the DNA test for your animal. The submission form for the hair sample will be sent to you via email: print the form out, pull the hair sample, and mail it to the lab. After the test is complete, the lab sends the results to our office. We’re then able to complete and issue your animal’s registration certificate to you via US postal mail. The certificate includes the full DNA report, with genetic markers and breed analysis, if applicable.

Can I show my AHQHR or ADNAR horse in AQHA shows?

  • No. AQHA is the most strictly governed purebred association. Only AQHA horses can be shown in AQHA shows.

What performance associations and programs recognize AHQHR and ADNAR Reg certificates?

  • It is our knowledge that AHQHR and ADNAR certificates are recognized everywhere (with the exception of breed specific shows and programs). However, we suggest that you check with the specific association, directly.
  • BFA, Future Fortunes, Mare Power, and NCHA, DO accept AHQHR and ADNAR certificates

Why should I register my horse?

  • Proof of ownership
  • Provides pedigree which shows how the horse is bred
  • Provides age verification
  • Adds value to your horse
  • Creates a record of past ownership and geological whereabouts
  • The horse becomes eligible for our “Ride” programs and other annual awards
  • Registration certificate is required to show a horse in any futurity, as well as enter him/ her in incentive programs, such as Future Fortunes, Mare Power, etc

What can I do if I don't have a copy of the sire and/ or dam’s registration certificate?

  • We can access the AQHA database and purchase pedigrees on your behalf for $5 per each. Other breed associations may be accessed for a higher rate of $10-$15 each. Please inquire for availability.

Can All Breed Pedigree be used in lieu of copies of registration certificates?

  • This should only be used as a last resort because registration numbers are not always included in All Breed Pedigree. It is not the most reliable site, either, as ANYONE can add anything without verification.
  • It is sufficient, however, for horses that are not registered and do not have registered horses in their lineage

What does my horse’s registration number say about him/ her?

  • Ex. Registration #: A006702-QA

1. The first letter indicates what classification your horse is.

  • Class A is a horse that has parental verification for both the sire and dam.
  • Class B is a horse that has parental verification for only one parent.
  • Class C is a horse that does not have parental verification.

2. The numeric digits indicate which horse yours is. In the above example, that horse is the 6702nd horse to be registered with ADNAR.
3. The letters following the number tell what breed cross your horse is.

Why should I add a photo to my horse's certificate?

  • This makes your horse more identifiable which is especially important for futurity horses, when selling a horse, and in the unfortunate event of a lost or stolen horse

How do I transfer an ADNAR horse into my name?

  • Fill out a transfer report with appropriate signatures and mail it to our office with the original registration certificate. The back of the certificate also needs filled out upon sale of the animal.

If I register my horse with AHQHR or ADNAR, can the offspring then be registered with AQHA?

  • No. AQHA is a purebred registry and the most strictly governed breed association.

Do I need a breeder’s certificate for my horse?

  • A breeder’s certificate is needed for horses under one year of age. We also prefer to have one on file for any and all horses whenever possible. It is section #8 of the application.

What can I do if I cannot obtain the necessary signatures for the breeder’s cert?

  • Contact our office if you need an exception to this requirement. Sometimes just one signature is sufficient (dam OR sire owner). These requests will be handled on a case to case basis.

Can information be added or changed on a horse’s certificate after he/ she is registered?

  • Yes. Almost any information or change can be added at a later date. If a horse is spayed or gelded, this change is done at no charge. Most changes are considered ‘replacement papers’, at $50. A name change is an additional $25

Who should I list as the ‘breeder’ for my horse?

  • The breeder is the owner of the DAM at the time of foaling.

What photos do I need to send with my horse's application?

  • Four photos of the horse being registered are needed: one front, one back, and one of each side. Please make sure all markings are visible. Additional photos may be necessary to show detailed brands or markings not otherwise seen (on the underside of the belly, etc). If a photo is to be added to the certificate, pls indicate which photo you prefer If the sire or dam is grade or unregistered, please include one quality photo of it. An exception will be made if this is not feasible. However, it may affect the ‘class’ that the horse is registered as.

What ‘class’ (classification) will my horse be registered under?

  • If the horse has parental verification for both parents: class A
  • If the horse has parental verification for only one parent: class B
  • If the horse does not have parental verification for either sire nor dam: class C

If you have any additional questions that are not listed on this page, please do not hesitate to Contact Us

AqHR Breed Codes

  • QA       Arabian
  • QAn     Andalusian
  • QAp     Appaloosa
  • QAt      Akhal-Teke
  • QCl      Clydesdale
  • QCm    Camargue
  • Qct      Chincoteague
  • QF       Fresian
  • QFj      Fjord
  • QG      grade cross
  • QH       Full Quarter Horse
  • Qhc      Hackney
  • Qhl       Halflinger
  • Qhn      Hanovarian
  • QHX    Appendix Quarter Horse
  • QI        Icelandic
  • QL       Lusitano
  • QLn     Lanero
  • QLz     Lipizzan
  • QM      Morgan
  • QMft     Missouri Fox Trotter
  • Qms      Mustang
  • QP         Paint
  • QPc       Percheron
  • Qpf       Paso Fino
  • Qpp      Peruvian Paso
  • QSB      Standardbred
  • Qsd      Shetland
  • Qslb     Saddlebred
  • QT        Thoroughbred
  • QTW      Tennessee Walker
  • QRm      Rocky Mountain
  • Qws        Welsh
  • QamW    American warmblood
  • QasW     Austrain warmblood
  • QdW      Danish warmblood
  • QhW      Hungarian warmblood
  • QsdW     Swedish warmblood
  • QssW     Swiss warmblood