Horse Evaluation CDE Practice Exam 2025 - Free Horse Evaluation Practice Questions and Study Guide

The term used to describe the genetic makeup of a horse is genotype. Genotype refers specifically to the underlying genetic composition of an individual, including all the alleles or variations of genes that they possess. This genetic makeup is what contributes to the horse's physical traits, behaviors, and potential for certain abilities or health issues.

In the context of horse evaluation, understanding the genotype is crucial, as it provides insights into the horse's lineage and hereditary traits, which can be significant for breeding decisions, performance expectations, and health considerations. A horse's genotype helps determine characteristics like color, size, and certain athletic capabilities, making it foundational to discussions about breeding and evaluation.

In contrast, phenotype describes the observable traits of the horse, which are influenced both by its genotype and the environment. Hereditary factors refer more broadly to traits passed from parents to offspring rather than specifically detailing genetic makeup. Alleles are the different versions of a gene but do not encompass the entirety of the horse's genetics. Thus, the concept of genotype captures the complete essence of a horse's genetic foundation.