Hanoverians are horses of predominantly Hanoverian descent, which are bred according to the breeding regulations of the Verband Hannoverscher Warmblutzuchter e.V. (VHW) - the Hanoverian Warmblood Breeders Association in Germany. They are registered with and have pedigree papers issued by, either the NZHS, the Verband, or any other Hanoverian Society that is recognized by the Verband, and are therefore eligible to wear the trademark registered Hanoverian brand.

In order for a horse to be eligible for Hanoverian birth registration and branding, both parents must have earned breeding approval from the authorizing body of the German Hanoverian Verband or one of its daughter societies. However, birth-branded Hanoverians are not automatically eligible to be used for breeding registered stock. Both stallions and mares must meet certain criteria in order to qualify for entry into the breeding Studbook. Rigorous selection procedures for stallions ensure that only those that meet the criteria will gain breeding approval. Mares in all Hanoverian breeding countries, including New Zealand, must undergo appraisal and classification by authorized inspectors.

More about stallions
More about mares

The registration of a foal must take place in accordance with the society's studbook regulations and the brand be applied before the foal is weaned.