Permanent, tamper-resistant, and accurate identification of horses provides positive proof of ownership. The identification of race, performance, sale, and show horses, broodmares, and stallions can be achieved rapidly using a variety of methods. Horses benefit from some form of identification in case of escape or emergencies/natural disasters.

Many methods of identifying horses exist, including lip tattooing, microchipping, hot iron branding, and freeze branding. In many cases, selection of the most appropriate identification technique is based on the owner’s preference. Alternatively, the identification technique is mandated in some breeds/disciplines. This free report provides the horse owner and caretaker with an overview of the most common types of horse identification.