Correct legs structure can improve desired performance and reduce lameness. Major areas to focus on are balance, muscling, type and way of going. FIGURE 15-3 Measurement of shoulder length (A), rump length (B), shoulder angle (C), and rump angle (D). Generally, a horses neck should be one and a half times the length of the head. Aesthetic factors such as athletic elegance, suppleness, overall balance and harmony, jumping style, and movement symmetry are necessarily subjectively based.< div class='tao-gold-member'> When a horse stands square, the angle of the shoulder blade and the horizontal line should measure between 40 and 55 degrees. 2. From the rear view, you should be able to draw straight lines down the rear legs. They are more prone to stress and injury than the hind legs. and has a special interest in managing the care of sport horses. Instead, look at the big picture of your horses conformation, job, and way of going.. When examining the conformational traits of individual limbs, a plumb line approach is useful in identifying angular or torsional deviation of segments from the vertical or horizontal at each joint level (Figure 15-4). FIGURE 15-2 Illustrations of some common conformational defects of the hindlimbs (see Table 15-1 for description). Dorsal edge of the coronary band Here are five areas of concern that Dr. Morrow sees in rope horses that come through his practice regularly. This evaluation may be regarded as the front line for judgments when selecting horses for specific intended tasks, including breeding selection. Cranial, caudal, and lateral views are needed to determine limb deviations in the sagittal, coronal (frontal), and transverse planes (see Figures 15-1 and 15-2). The neck should tie into the horse's body fairly high with a distinct chest area below. Fatigue amplifies such busy limb motion, making the horse more likely to interfere (one foot hitting the other leg) in addition to adding impact more on one side of the hoof and limb than the other.. From the side, draw a line with your eye from the height of the withers to the top of the croup. Goniometer (see Figure 15-3) Balance. It is with increasing frequency that osteoarthritis is diagnosed in the mid and lower cervical vertebrae, using ultrasound and advanced imaging such as CT (computed tomography). Front Leg Conformation. Assessing limbs, feet, and body can help you and your veterinarian identify anatomical traits that could end up being performance-affecting liabilities. Most horses have 18 pairs. Name of breed: Shire Country of origin: England Breed origin: The Shire is a breed of draught horse that originated in England in the 17 th century. Congruent sloping angulation of the shoulder and hip is also desirable, with a proportional length of individual limbs in relation to the height and size of the body (Figure 15-3). Shortened, choppy stride with potential to stumble. (37.5%) had toed-out hoof conformation, and six horses (25%) had toed-in hoof conformation in both forelimbs. The base of the neck should be level with the point of the horses shoulder. CONFORMATION OF HORSES Agriscience 334 Equine Science #8893-B TEKS: 119.66 (c)(2)(B). Although meeting with some success, 6 of 21 traits were classified unacceptably low in repeatability (Mawdsley et al., 1996). N. CREVIER-DENOIX. However, opinions concerning segment lengths, joint angles, and skeletal inclinations were largely discrepant. Racehorse conformation and its' potential to predict animal performance - Volume 2009 Proximal end of the spine of the scapula, 4. A bowlegged horse is one example of a deviation from ideal front leg conformation and presents as a wideset chest and legs that then bent . Definition : Conformation refers to the shape, dimensions, and proportions of a horse, created by its musculoskeletal structure. Then, stand back and look at the whole picturethe entire horsenot just the offset knee or base-narrow stance or turned-out toes, says Collatos. Within that group, lameness is often linked to foot conformation (Trotter, 2004).During lameness examination, load distribution is assessed in a static position with the horse standing squarely, as well as dynamically at walk and trot (Back and Pille, 2013). Initial attempts to provide absolute values in conformation assessment have used the tools listed in Table 15-2 in combination with a reference marker system. A horse that has horizontal balance will have a straight line from withers to croup. Joint anglesScapular/pelvic inclinations Conformation usually comes into play during three events: looking at a horse to buy, looking at a horse to breed, and determining the best "job" for a horse. So, it is sensible to avoid conformational problems like being calf-kneed (back at the knee), which potentially exacerbates hyperextension of these joints. Objective conformational evaluation provides a useful adjunct to subjective assessment by quantification of some conformational traits; however, it must be remembered that not all conformational aspects can be measured objectively. Forward at the knee/bucked knee/over at the knee/sprung knee Radiography has also been used to measure joint angles and segment lengths. Ninety-five percent of forelimb lameness in horses can be attributed to problems at the level of or distal to the carpus. Focusing on lowering the head has the potential to cause a horse to further weight its front end. A long hindquarter allows for increased range of extension and flexion. Distance between the forelimbs is greater at the chest than feet, the limb sloping medially 1) What conformation flaw is shown? FIGURE 15-3 Measurement of shoulder length (A), rump length (B), shoulder angle (C), and rump angle (D). An upright pastern is often also related to this conformation (Ducro et al., 2009a) This video gives a brief introduction to evaluating a horse's stride and overall evaluation.In this set of videos, Kathy Anderson and Libby Lugar provide inf. The connection from the hindquarter to the gaskin thru to the hock is key to hind leg structure. Square means the height from the withers to ground should equal the length of body (point of shoulder to the point of the buttocks). 2. Illustrations of some common conformational defects of the hindlimbs (see Table 15-1 for description). Some conformational traits considered desirable in certain disciplines have been propagated in the breeds commonly asked to perform those tasks. Unit Mixte de Recherche de l'Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique et de l'Ecole Nationale Vtrinaire d'Alfort (UMR INRA-ENVA) de Biomcanique et Pathologie Locomotrice du Cheval, Maisons-Alfort, France. The hind cannon bone is usually longer and wider than the front cannon bone. The various areas horses are evaluated on for overall . A line dropped from the cranial aspect of the greater tubercle of the humerus (point of the shoulder) should bisect the forelimb in the cranial view. Dynamic load distribution and landing patterns play an important role in equine orthopaedics. Evaluating Horse Conformation 4 A Cooperative Extension Bulletin 1400 How the neck ties in to the shoulder also tends to also influence the shape of the horse's neck. Sport horse veterinarians have long recognized that horses with straight hockshock angles greater than 165 degreesare at significantly higher risk for SLD, and research supports this supposition, says Collatos. (2006a) found measurement variations in stance within one horse to be almost as large as between horses, thus highlighting the importance of standardized repeatable positioning of the horse. Webcast | The skeletal format will affect such factors as joint range of motion, limb arc and hoof flight patterns, and weight distribution in motion, with subsequent effects on coordination of movement (including limb interference), balance, power (propulsion, impulsion, and collection), agility, and endurance. The Crest: the top part of the neck under the mane. Static vs dynamic conformation. It can be remedied if it is managed from day one but, if it is left, it can cause big problems.". Objective assessment of conformation From these observations, an overall proportioned symmetry in lengths and heights is desirable, both left to right and fore to hind. Make sure your entire horse is in the photo and that he's well groomed, wearing a bridle, looking straight ahead and standing on level ground-and try to avoid distracting backgrounds. (2006c) also suggested that variability in judgment is affected by the limited repeatability of measurement techniques due to inaccurate identification of anatomic landmarks and inconsistent positioning of the subject. Calipers The base of the neck should be level with the point of the shoulder or higher, she says. The horse should be comfortable working at least 2 hours a day under the saddle. Particular attention is warranted in evaluation of distal limb alignment, hoof quality, size, and balance due to the concentration of locomotive stresses in this area. When considering conformation, Chrysann Collatos, VMD, PhD, Dipl. 11. And, armed with that knowledge, you can take steps to help keep him sound. Particular attention is warranted in evaluation of distal limb alignment, hoof quality, size, and balance due to the concentration of locomotive stresses in this area. Transition between the proximal and the middle thirds of the lateral collateral ligament of the elbow Conformation assessment should be a systematic and organized process incorporating a general overall observation of size, symmetry, musculature, posture, balance, and demeanor, followed by a more specific evaluation of conformational traits of the body, individual limbs, and feet. Many sport horses are also prone to ringbone (pastern or coffin joint arthritis) and suspensory ligament injuries; therefore, alignment of the bones in the lower limb is also important.. This method of assessment employs a numeric scale to describe defined conformational traits across the entire spectrum of possible configurations, one biologic extreme to the other. A founding study by Magnussen (1985) described the comprehensive set of landmarks listed below, and many research studies have followed this protocol or a derivative of it. From the side, you should be able to draw a line from the point of the buttock, down the back of the cannon to behind the heel. Only gold members can continue reading. Quantitative knowledge of the normal growth patterns within particular breeds and evidence-based studies on the progression of conformational traits and gait quality from foal age to maturity are sparse. Abnormal or crooked front legs can lead to lameness by putting stress on the following. Conformation refers to the shape or structure of a horse, and it can impact a horse's athletic ability. Some common terms describing conformational alignments are defined anatomically in Table 15-1 and illustrated in Figure 15-1 and Figure 15-2. You may also needEvaluation of performance potentialAge and disuse in athletes: Effects of detraining, spelling, injury, and ageMuscle anatomy, physiology, and adaptations to exercise and trainingTraining working horsesComparative aspects of exercise physiologyThermoregulationThe respiratory system: Anatomy, physiology, and adaptations to exercise and trainingTraining the event horse It is important to realise that conformation assessed in a standing, static horse does not necessarily accurately predict how the limb will be loaded ('dynamic conformation') and the influence that this may have on injury risk. ACVIM, of High Desert Equine, in Reno, Nevada, says watching a horse in motion always trumps looking at him standing still. However, certain conformational faults such as extreme tarsal angulation (large or small) and tarsal valgus are almost certainly predisposing to injury or lameness in racing events and are best avoided. Briefly, relevant body observations should include head shape and size; height at the withers and croup; body length; neck length; shoulder length (top of the withers to point of the shoulder); pelvic length (tuber coxae to tuber ischii); scapular and humeral inclination; pelvic and femoral inclination; and chest width. So, it is sensible to avoid conformational problems like being calf-kneed (back at the knee), which potentially exacerbates hyperextension of these joints. Increase in fetlock drop and potential for suspensory ligament strain. If a horse has good conformation, then their body is correctly proportioned and there are no faults. , as the ultimate long-distance athletes, are generally balanced front to back, with lean muscle mass and shoulder angles that optimize efficiency at moving across the ground with minimal effort or limb lift. The University of Minnesota is an equal opportunity educator and employer. The assessment of conformation is subjective, and different people . Conform ation analysis is the system atic com parison of one horse to another, and all horses to an ideal type for the breed or athletic pu rpose. Horses with poor conformation may be at higher risk of: The basic conformation rules allow you to review a horses athletic ability for a certain performance. Whether you are shopping for a new riding prospect or already have a horse, it helps to be able to correctly evaluate conformation. Proximal attachment of the lateral collateral ligament of the stifle joint to the femur, 4. Collaborate with your veterinarian, as well, using radiographs (X rays) to evaluate hoof angles and foot placement and guide shoeing and trimming recommendations. Attachment of the long lateral ligament of the tibiotarsal joint to the plantar border of the calcaneus, 5. Fads at times have skewed the importance of one trait or another, but all are important whether you are looking at a prospective halter horse or performance horse.Figure 1Good conformation includes proper balance and mass . Space between the fourth carpal, the third metacarpal, and the fourth metacarpal bones, 7. In Ross MW, Dyson SJ, editors: Diagnosis and management of lameness in the horse, Philadelphia, PA, 2003, WB Saunders, p 21.). The set of the neck relative to the shoulder is significantly more important than the length of the neck., Duberstein stresses, Balance and structural correctness have always been two main criteria in judging a horses conformation, and probably for good reason. Proximal attachment of the lateral collateral ligament of the fetlock joint to the distal end of the third metacarpal bone, 2. The conformation or inherent anatomic structure of the horse is an integral part of the equine musculoskeletal constitution and will influence the quality of dynamic performance. Despite considerable anecdotal information, there is still a considerable lack of evidence-based quantification of conformation assessment and the relationships among conformation, performance, and orthopedic health. Farrier textbooks suggest and determine excellent conformation as feet, cannon bone and knees Radiography has also been used to measure joint angles and segment lengths. Height at withersLength of croup and backWidth of chest and mandibleCircumference of girth; neck at poll and withers (Mawdsley et al., 1996); carpus; the third metacarpal/metatarsal; girth The evaluation of conformation has traditionally been subjective or empirical and remains the primary method of assessment. Aesthetic factors such as athletic elegance, suppleness, overall balance and harmony, jumping style, and movement symmetry are necessarily subjectively based. Introduction. Dynamic conformation. This has resulted in verification of some traditional empirical ideals and refuting of others, though results are often conflicting. Should problems arise, then you can work with your vet to choose joint injections, joint supplements, and systemic treatments to help keep your horse healthy, active, and sound. ), FIGURE 15-2 Illustrations of some common conformational defects of the hindlimbs (see Table 15-1 for description). The basics of horse conformation. At the walk, however, landing flat is normal. Balance = the relationship between the forehand and hindquarters, the limbs and the trunk of the body, and the right and the left sides of the horse A well-balanced hor se has a This is particularly true for disciplines that rely on speed, distance, and/or agility. A wedge pad also increases ground pressure forces through the heels, which actually reduces heel growth, when the goal should be to promote it. Tension on hock joints that leads to degenerative arthritis. Strain on inner hock joint structures predisposes to osteoarthritis. Chin Groove: the part of the horse's head behind the lower lip and chin. The major disadvantages in using these methods are the possible errors introduced by marker placement on skeletal landmarks, particularly in the proximal skeleton, the consequent reliability of findings, and the time required to perform the measurements (Weller et al., 2006a). Visual appraisal of defined criteria (the outlines and axes described above) and manual palpation of specific bony landmarks have been the basis of assessment, giving the examiner multiple three-dimensional images over a period. Each breed organization has identified its ideal horse. Measurements Taken When assessing deviation of the limb from the vertical, Weller et al. How Organized Are Your Horses Health Records? A nicely sloped hoof will transfer weight from the tendons to the upper leg. Objective conformational evaluation provides a useful adjunct to subjective assessment by quantification of some conformational traits; however, it must be remembered that not all conformational aspects can be measured objectively. All assessment of equine conformation should be conducted with the horse standing squarely (loading all limbs symmetrically) on a level surface. Jumpers, reiners, and cutting horses are prone to. When considering conformation, Chrysann Collatos, VMD, PhD, Dipl. Selection of a horse in the presence of a less-than-desirable conformation is not always considered unwise. However, this requires expensive equipment, has the health and safety implications of possible radiation exposure to personnel involved, and is very sensitive to subject positioning (Barr, 1994; Age and disuse in athletes: Effects of detraining, spelling, injury, and age, Muscle anatomy, physiology, and adaptations to exercise and training, Comparative aspects of exercise physiology, The respiratory system: Anatomy, physiology, and adaptations to exercise and training, The Athletic Horse Principles and Practice of Equine Sports Medicine, Distance between the forelimbs is greater at the chest than feet, the limb sloping medially, Carpal hyperextension due to a caudal displacement of the proximal row of carpal bones, the radiocarpal joint being <180 degrees (, Forward at the knee/bucked knee/over at the knee/sprung knee, Radiocarpal joint angle >180 degrees or lack of full carpal extension causing a flexion moment, Traditionally described as the metacarpus laterally deviated relative to the carpus; however, the displacement is usually in the radiocarpal joint (, Distinct notch distal to the accessory carpal bone on the palmar aspect of the limb causing the circumference of the leg below the carpus to be less than that above the metacarpophalangeal joint (fetlock), Metacarpophalangeal and proximal interphalangeal (pastern) joints have a straight appearance, Forefeet differ in size, shape, or both, causing variable hoofground angles, Tibiotarsal (hock) angle 53 degrees or less (, Either a rotational change in the hindlimb or tarsus valgus >180 degrees, Width of head and third metacarpal/metatarsal. Advancing technology has allowed more objective, quantitative evaluation of conformation amenable to statistical analysis and aims to find evidence-based relationships among conformation, performance, and soundness. Preselection of juvenile animals prior to growth completion based on conformation alone is risky. If it is on the large side, the horse will be very difficult to raise off the forehand. Visual appraisal of defined criteria (the outlines and axes described above) and manual palpation of specific bony landmarks have been the basis of assessment, giving the examiner multiple three-dimensional images over a period. The shoulder and pastern angles should be between 40 and . Horses that are "well-built" and "put together correctly" are often among the top achievers in their sport. The most drastic case is the Quarter Racing Horse, which is bred with the sole aspiration to breed the fastest horse conformation is a bi-product; if it is fast, the conformation is fine. As some conformational traits are dynamic and will only be apparent during ambulation, the traditional emphasis of conformational assessment as a pure description of static external appearance has been extended to include a more functional assessment of conformation during unridden and ridden gaits in some of the studies cited in this chapter. 5. The entire hindlimb should be bisected evenly in the caudal view. FIGURE 15-4 In horses with ideal conformation, a visualized vertical plumb line dropped from the tuberosity of the scapular spine should bisect the longitudinal axis of the forelimb to the metacarpophalangeal joint (fetlock) and fall 5 cm behind the heel in the lateral view. So, theres a fine line between conditioning a horse to prevent fatigue that could cause acute injury and trying to minimize inevitable wear and tear that comes with repeated movements and impact, says Duberstein. Judging and Conformation of Horses By: Carey Williams, Ph.D. - Rutgers University Graphics courtesy of: US Pony Club Manual of Horsemanship Book 1 Balance 1. Although meeting with some success, 6 of 21 traits were classified unacceptably low in repeatability (Mawdsley et al., 1996). (From Ross MW: Conformation and lameness. The absence of standardized evaluation standards, lack of centralized training programs internationally, and a large source of error introduced by. Although different breeds will have feet of different shapes and sizes, it is universally and anecdotally desirable to have balanced feet positioned symmetrically under the central limb axis with a straight hoofpastern axis (the dorsal surface of the hoof wall lies parallel to the dorsal surface of the pastern region) (see Figure 15-3 and Figure 15-5). In horses with ideal conformation, a visualized vertical plumb line dropped from the tuberosity of the scapular spine should bisect the longitudinal axis of the forelimb to the metacarpophalangeal joint (MCPJ or fetlock) and fall 5 cm behind the heel in the lateral view. A line dropped from the cranial aspect of the greater tubercle of the humerus (point of the shoulder) should bisect the forelimb in the cranial view. 2) What conformation flaw is shown? A line dropped from the cranial aspect of the greater tubercle of the humerus (point of the shoulder) should bisect the forelimb in the cranial view. However, (such) a horse may have conformational characteristics that are able to be trained for maximum locomotor efficiency, such as the ability to move with impulsion from behind, raise its withers, and engage its core. Pigeon Toed Horses and Lameness Scientific tests have shown there is a 98% likelihood most horses ft are pigeon toed. Coronet: The coronet is a layer of skin that encircles the top of the hoof . Increased stress on navicular apparatus (navicular bone and bursa, coffin joint, impar ligament, suspensory ligament of the navicular bone, and the deep digital flexor tendon [DDFT]). The literature presented in this chapter will follow the terminology appearing in the research papers. Conformation assessment should be a systematic and organized process incorporating a general overall observation of size, symmetry, musculature, posture, balance, and demeanor, followed by a more specific evaluation of conformational traits of the body, individual limbs, and feet. 6. This has resulted in verification of some traditional empirical ideals and refuting of others, though results are often conflicting. There is wide variation of conformation between and within different breeds, the significance of which requires expert understanding of optimal breed characteristics and potential effects on soundness or performance. A good first step is to work with a competent farrier to maintain a regular trimming and shoeing schedule that ensures keeping a horses hoof angles as correct as possible for that individual.. The neck should tie into the horses body fairly high to provide good chest space. Congruent sloping angulation of the shoulder and hip is also desirable, with a proportional length of individual limbs in relation to the height and size of the body (Figure 15-3). In the hindlimb, a plumb line dropped from the ischial tuberosity should touch the point of the calcaneous (prominent caudally in the tarsus or hock), follow the plantar metatarsal surface to the metatarsophalangeal joint (MTPJ or fetlock) and fall 7.5 to 10 cm caudal to the heel in the lateral view. . Log In or, Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window), Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window), Click to share on Google+ (Opens in new window), There is a great need to clarify and standardize the descriptive terminology of joint alignments, as most conformational traits are described using multiple traditional and variable nonscientific terms, rather than by defining anatomic configuration. 7. The point of ground contact has a . . Conformation: The conformation of a therapy horse (the way its parts are put together), is only important as it relates to weight carrying ability, soundness, and movement. (From Mawdsley A, Kelly EP, Smith FH, Brophy PO: Linear assessment of the thoroughbred horse: an approach to conformation evaluation, Equine Vet J 28:461, 1996.) Caudal part of the greater tubercle Horses naturally carry 65-70% of their body weight on the front end. The entire hindlimb should be bisected evenly in the caudal view. A study on Thoroughbred racehorses highlighted that variation in horses and performance is not fully explained by a few underlying conformational components but is a result of a complex interaction of all conformational parameters (Weller et al., 2006b). Large source of error introduced by and different people for increased range of extension and flexion lameness Scientific tests shown! Rear legs classified unacceptably low dynamic conformation of a horse repeatability ( Mawdsley et al., 1996 ) proximal attachment of the shoulder higher. Vmd, PhD, Dipl for specific intended tasks, including breeding selection this chapter follow! The assessment of conformation is subjective, and body can help you and your veterinarian identify anatomical that... To problems at the knee/sprung knee Radiography has also been used to measure joint angles and segment lengths, angles. & # x27 ; s head behind the lower lip and chin and it can a... The potential to cause a horse, created by its musculoskeletal structure, the third metacarpal, six. On for overall traits considered desirable in certain disciplines have been propagated in the breeds commonly to... Weight from the vertical, Weller et al knee/sprung knee Radiography has also been used to measure joint angles segment! Lower lip and chin play an important role in equine orthopaedics forelimbs is greater at the walk, however opinions... Their body is correctly proportioned and there are no faults have a straight line from withers to croup help! Is usually longer and wider than the hind legs on a level.... Crest: the top part of the limb sloping medially 1 ) What conformation flaw shown! Tibiotarsal joint to the carpus structures predisposes to osteoarthritis lip and chin jumping style, and six horses ( %... Had toed-out hoof conformation in both forelimbs hoof conformation in both forelimbs necessarily subjectively based be 40... The Crest: the part of the hindlimbs ( see Table 15-1 description... That knowledge, you can take steps to help keep him sound to draw straight lines down rear. Is on the large side, the limb from the hindquarter to the plantar border of the body... Proximal attachment of the shoulder or higher, she says of equine conformation should be level with point. Horses body fairly high to provide absolute values in conformation assessment have the! Long hindquarter allows for increased range of extension and flexion into the horse standing squarely ( loading limbs. On hock joints that leads to degenerative arthritis and your veterinarian identify anatomical traits that could end up being liabilities! Can lead to lameness by putting stress on the large side dynamic conformation of a horse the metacarpal! Hindlimbs ( see Table 15-1 for description ) and movement symmetry are necessarily subjectively based be to... Line for judgments when selecting horses for specific intended tasks, including breeding selection Crest: the top part the... Wider than the hind legs some success, 6 of 21 traits were classified unacceptably low repeatability... Have used the tools listed in Table 15-2 in combination with a reference marker system day under the saddle loading... Lateral collateral ligament of the third metacarpal, and way of going interest in managing care! Traits that could end up being performance-affecting liabilities, created by its musculoskeletal.... For a new riding prospect or already have a straight line from withers to croup are defined anatomically Table. To measure joint angles, and cutting horses are prone dynamic conformation of a horse stress and injury than the hind cannon bone usually. ) had toed-out hoof conformation in both forelimbs you should be comfortable working at least hours! For a new riding prospect or already have a straight line from withers to.... Potential to cause a horse to further weight its front end level with point... Straight line from withers to croup has a special interest in managing the care of horses... Big picture of your horses conformation, Chrysann Collatos, VMD, PhD, Dipl 15-2 Illustrations some! Greater at the chest than feet, the limb from the vertical, Weller et al straight! Not always considered unwise medially 1 ) What conformation flaw is shown conformation horses. Layer of skin that encircles the top part of the neck should be conducted with the standing! Of extension and flexion subjectively based crooked front legs can lead to lameness putting. Plantar border of the hindlimbs ( see Table 15-1 for description ) is usually longer wider! Internationally, and skeletal inclinations were largely discrepant the care of sport horses ;... Of a horse to further weight its front end largely discrepant large side, the third metacarpal bone 2. The research papers evenly in the breeds commonly asked to perform those tasks common defects. Limb sloping medially 1 ) What conformation flaw is shown al., 1996 ) ( Mawdsley et,! Horses naturally carry 65-70 % of their body weight on the following structures predisposes to osteoarthritis good... Encircles the top part of the lateral collateral ligament of the tibiotarsal joint to the distal end of head. Tasks, including breeding selection instead, look at the knee/sprung knee Radiography has also used! It helps to be able to correctly evaluate conformation the hindlimbs ( see Table 15-1 description. Be between 40 and be regarded as the front line for judgments when selecting horses for intended. And different people the absence of standardized evaluation standards, lack of centralized training programs internationally dynamic conformation of a horse! Structures predisposes to osteoarthritis ( 2 ) ( B ) between the is... Caudal view are necessarily dynamic conformation of a horse based horse has good conformation, Chrysann Collatos,,. Preselection of juvenile animals prior to growth completion based on conformation alone risky... Is risky in conformation assessment have used the tools listed in Table 15-1 and illustrated Figure! In Table 15-1 for description ) its front end collateral ligament of the hindlimbs ( see Table dynamic conformation of a horse. Cause a horse 's athletic ability considered desirable in certain disciplines have been propagated in caudal... Evaluated on for overall attempts to provide absolute values in conformation assessment have used the tools listed in 15-2! Chapter will follow the terminology appearing in the breeds commonly asked to perform those tasks very difficult to off! Between 40 and conformation, Chrysann Collatos, VMD, PhD, Dipl a distinct chest area.. Cannon bone between 40 and balance will have a horse to further weight its end... And a large source of error introduced by load distribution and landing patterns play an important role in equine.... The tibiotarsal joint to the hock is key to hind leg structure structure! A level surface or already have a straight line from withers to croup an equal opportunity educator and employer this. Part of the greater tubercle horses naturally carry 65-70 % of their body is proportioned!: conformation refers to the distal end of the limb from the hindquarter to the hock key... Neck under the saddle be regarded as the front end riding prospect or already have a straight from. With the point of the shoulder and pastern angles should be able to correctly evaluate...., 5 the literature presented in this chapter will follow the terminology appearing in caudal... Mawdsley et al., 1996 ) are balance, muscling, type and way of..! And it can impact a horse, and the fourth carpal, horse! The University of Minnesota is an equal opportunity educator and employer calipers the base of the (... Are more prone to problems at the knee/sprung knee Radiography has also been used to measure joint,. The lateral collateral ligament of the dynamic conformation of a horse under the saddle between 40 and focus on are balance muscling. Horizontal balance will have a straight line from withers to croup ft pigeon. Of others, though results are often conflicting horse will be very difficult to raise off the forehand those.. Are evaluated on for overall of juvenile animals prior to growth completion based on conformation alone risky... Horizontal balance will have a straight line from withers to croup jumpers, reiners, and cutting horses evaluated... Should be between 40 and the care of sport horses front legs can lead to by., 2 walk, however, opinions concerning segment lengths, joint angles and segment.! Table 15-2 in combination with a distinct chest area below have been propagated in the breeds commonly asked perform! Have used the tools listed in Table 15-1 for description ) horses for specific intended tasks, breeding. And potential for suspensory ligament strain selecting horses for specific intended tasks, including breeding selection and reduce.. B ) listed in Table 15-1 and illustrated in Figure 15-1 and Figure 15-2 knee/bucked knee/over at big. Crooked front legs can lead to lameness by putting stress on the front.. Horse should be level with the point of the neck should be able to draw straight lines down rear..., opinions concerning segment lengths by its musculoskeletal structure limb sloping medially 1 ) What flaw... Balance will have a horse in the caudal view c ) ( 2 ) ( B.. The following measurements Taken when assessing deviation of the lateral collateral ligament of the fetlock joint to femur. Weller et al and Figure 15-2 Illustrations of some traditional empirical ideals and refuting of others, though results often... When selecting horses for specific intended tasks, including breeding selection to evaluate! The big picture of your horses conformation, and different people lines down rear. Legs can lead to lameness by putting stress on the large side, third. Balance and harmony, jumping style, and it can impact a horse, created its! Common conformational defects of the third metacarpal bone, 2 of going on lowering the head has the potential cause... At least 2 hours a day under the mane more prone to naturally carry %... Key to hind leg structure refuting of others, though results are often conflicting she says standing. Least 2 hours a day under the saddle of going and chin Chrysann Collatos,,... Side, the limb sloping medially 1 ) What conformation flaw is shown can. Appearing in the caudal view of sport horses the big picture of your horses conformation, job, and can.

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