Horses

The main aim of horse breeding is sport and leisure. In a few member states there is bred for meat production. Horse milk has become more popular in Europe. For many horse breeds, breeding of horses is characterised for many breeds by a constant process of introduction of genes from thorough breeds to improve regional breeds. 
Breeding goals focus on performance, confirmation and functional traits (fertility, behaviour, health). 

There are many small and private breeding units, organised in regional or national studbooks - especially in sport horses. Europe has a leading global position in sport horses.