Tuigpaard mares may start their breeding careers in the spring after they are presented at Studbook Selections throughout The Netherlands. The three year olds are then registered in the main studbook and branded with the Proud Lion. The best mares of these selections can then be shown at Provincial Selections. Only the finest will qualify for presentation at the National Mares Selection where an international jury decides the superior and best moving mares.

A Dutch Harness Horse mare, branded and registered in the main studbook, has satisfied the minimum requirements for conformation and movement. The better mares earn the "star" (ster) predicate at Provincial Selections. A higher ranking "keur" predicate is only awarded to better mares that have produced offspring and have passed selection performance tests. To emphasize the importance of soundness, the "elite" predicate is for top mares that have passed extensive x-ray examination. Mares that have produced at least three superior offspring will receive the "preferent" predicate, and, if a minimum of three offspring have performed with excellence, she will be assigned the higher "prestatie" predicate. The "sport" predicate may also be awarded to mares which have a record of performing well in Fine Harness classes.