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FAQ

Missouri Fox Trotting Horse Registry – Frequently Asked Questions

This section is designed to help owners—new and experienced—navigate common registry, transfer, and breeding questions. If you need assistance at any point, the MFTHBA office is always happy to help.

I just bought a Missouri Fox Trotter. How do I transfer the horse into my name?

When you purchase a registered Missouri Fox Trotter, the seller should provide you with the original Certificate of Registration.

To complete the transfer:

  • The seller must complete and sign the transfer section on the back of the certificate

  • The date of purchase must be listed

  • A maximum of two individuals may jointly own a horse

  • All listed owners must be current MFTHBA members

Transfer fees:

  • $25 if the horse has been owned less than 12 months

  • $40 if the horse has been owned 12 months or longer

The MFTHBA strongly encourages owners to complete transfers within 30 days of purchase to ensure accurate ownership records.

I just bought a Missouri Fox Trotter, but the previous owner did not transfer the papers. How do I get the information up to date?

Follow the standard transfer process.
Each unrecorded ownership change must be documented.

  • There is a $25 fee per transfer to record each transaction

  • If the horse has been owned by the same individual for one year or more, the transfer fee is $40

What does “BT” on the registration papers stand for?

BT stands for Blood Typed, a method used for identification and parentage verification prior to DNA testing.

What is the difference between Brown, Blue, and Gold papers?

  • Blue Papered
    Fourth-generation foals whose previous three generations are fully and permanently registered with the MFTHBA.

  • Brown Papered
    Any registered foal not eligible for Blue Papers.

  • Gold Papered
    Gold Papers indicate DNA parentage verification. The mare, stallion, and foal must all be DNA tested, and results must confirm parentage is not excluded. The registration certificate is stamped Parentage Verified. The MFTHBA has updated its rules to require DNA parentage verification for all newly registered horses. As a result, all newly issued registration certificates are Gold Papers.

Any horse that has been parentage verified by DNA may obtain Gold Papers. If the horse already has a Certificate of Registration, the fee to reissue Gold Papers is $25.

My registered mare just had a foal. How do I register it?

The stallion owner should provide an Application for Registration (Breeder’s Certificate). The mare owner completes the remaining sections and submits the form with payment.

Foal registration fees (DNA required):

  • Birth through 12 months: $40

  • Over 1 year of age: $80

The foal, sire, and dam must all have DNA on file with the MFTHBA before registration can be completed.

If I lose my registration papers, what should I do?

You may apply for a Duplicate Certificate of Registration by submitting an affidavit.

  • Duplicate certificate fee: $25

  • Membership must be current

How do I obtain a DNA kit?

DNA kits may be ordered:

  • Online through Forms & Downloads

  • By mail with payment

  • By phone using a credit card

  • DNA kit fee (includes processing): $60

DNA is collected by pulling at least 50 hairs with roots attached from the mane or tail—no veterinarian is required. Results typically take 4–8 weeks and will be emailed once received by the MFTHBA office.

What must be completed before I breed my stallion?

Before offspring can be registered:

  • The stallion must have DNA on file

I will be breeding my mare using shipped semen. Are there special requirements?

No.  The MFTHBA does not have any special requirements.

Can I register a foal produced through Embryo Transfer?

No.  The MFTHBA does not have any special requirements.

I have submitted my paperwork. How long does it take to receive it back?

Serving our members is a priority at the Missouri Fox Trotting Horse Breed Association. Once complete paperwork is received by the MFTHBA office, we aim to process all items within 14 days, with most transactions completed within 3 business days.

Please note:

  • Processing times apply to time spent in the MFTHBA office only

  • All outgoing mail is sent via USPS, and mailing time is not included

  • Paperwork that is incomplete or missing required information will take significantly longer to process

  • During MFTHBA events, processing times may be extended due to increased workload

Even during busy periods, we make every effort to return your paperwork as quickly as possible. If you have questions about your submission or need assistance, the MFTHBA office is always happy to help.

Where can I find forms, fees, and official rules?

All required forms and current fees are listed on the MFTHBA Customer Work Order Form, and official requirements are outlined in the MFTHBA Rule Book.

For assistance, please contact the Missouri Fox Trotting Horse Breed Association office at foxtrot@mfthba.com or 417-683-2468.