Linear type trait analysis in the genetic resource of the Old Kladrub Horse

Linear type evaluations of 214 horses of the Old Kladrub breed for 32 trait s were used to analyse the effect of variety (gray and black), sex (stallio ns and mares) and age. The linear model included the fixed effects of varie ty, sex and age and interactions variety x sex, variety x age and sex x age . Significant differences were found between the varieties in almost two th irds of the traits. The topline was longer and weaker in the black variety than in the gray one. The shoulder of the gray horses was longer and more s loped than of the black one. The animals of the gray variety had a wider an d deeper chest. The stance of forelimbs and hind limbs was more correct in the gray variety than in the black one. Significant differences between sex es were observed in a few traits. Only 12 of 32 traits showed significant c hanges with age. Tn 10 of 32 traits, at least one of the interactions was s ignificant. The estimates of this study characterise the Old Kladrub breed and its varieties in its current state and allow for more accurate evaluati on of the horses.