University of Minnesota Extension

ww-00482     Revised 1990  

Selecting Your Horse

R. M. Jordan
Professor, Animal Science


Table of Contents

Breeds and Use Classification

Breed Relationship

Special Attributes of Different Breeds

Appearance and Conformation

Judging

Gaits and Action

Defects and Peculiarities in Gait

Unsoundnesses, Blemishes, Ailments

Other Important Traits


Pride of ownership and accomplishment
is evident with this young rider and her Quarter Horse.

Soundness of wind and limb, style, animation and beautiful form, coupled with spritely and true action is what horse selection is all about. Since there is such a variety of type, color, size, and disposition in horses and ponies, it shouldn't be hard to find a suitable mount.

In horse selection, the first questions to answer are—

What use will be made of the horse? Will the horse be suitable for the person who is going to use him? Is the horse trained?

Reading a bulletin will not make you an accomplished judge of horses, but a brief description of such points as desired type, breeds, gaits, and unsoundness may be a useful guide and may help you avoid later disappointments.

College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences and University of Minnesota Extension Logos
- (Cover photo) Photos courtesy of Jack Brainerd, Diamond B Ranch, Rochester, Minn., and Kanttell Stables, Hamel, Minn.

Produced by Communication and Educational Technology Services, University of Minnesota Extension.

In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, this material is available in alternative formats upon request. Please contact your University of Minnesota Extension office or the Extension Store at (800) 876-8636.


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