What are conformation flaws?

Any conformational flaw causes deviations in where the horse absorbs concussion. Conformational defects affect the horse’s way of moving and can also lead to future lameness due to excessive stress placed on certain areas of the body during athletic movements.

What causes hind end weakness in horses?

Weakness can be caused by a lack of proper training, conformational problems, a lack of muscle development, or joint and bone problems. If you notice your horse is weak in the hind end, you need to have him checked by the veterinarian to determine if a medical problem is the cause.

What causes hind limb lameness in horses?

Lameness is the most common cause of loss of use in horses. It can be caused by trauma, congenital or acquired disorders, infection, metabolic disorders, or nervous and circulatory system disease. Lameness is not a disease per se but a clinical sign.

What causes a horse to have a conformation fault?

There are conformation faults which can affect the soundness of the horse. When viewed from the side, the legs can be: The front leg, from body to the ground, is set too far forward. May be an indication of Navicular disease or laminitis.

What causes lameness in a base wide horse?

Stress, strain and concussion forces usually cause lameness. Poor conformation is a factor when stress is placed on a specific area of a leg. For example, a base wide horse will have more stress and strain on the inside of its legs. They are then more prone to injuries on the inside of their legs.

What does square mean in a horse’s conformation?

Square means the height from the withers to ground should equal the length of body (point of shoulder to the point of the buttocks). A proportionate horse will be symmetrical on both sides of its body. Faults in conformation should be symmetrical.

What to look for in a horse’s leg conformation?

Straightness and symmetry indicate overall fair front-end conformation for this horse. The slight knock-knee and left side toe-out could be improved. Start with straightness. When looking at a horse from the front with him standing quietly, the front legs should appear to be straight.