Conformational characteristics in Arabian and Thoroughbred horses

Abstract

Horses are expected to maintain their racing lives with healthy and high performances. The body structure of an ideal race horse should have ideal athletic characteristics. By selecting horses with good body structure, it is possible to increase both race achievements and breeding values. Studies are ongoing to evaluate the ideal body structure of horses in an objective and measurable way. This helps identify the strengths and weaknesses of horses. The study was aimed at determining the overall body conformations of Arabian and Thoroughbred racing horses by morphometric measurements. Photographs of Arabian and Thoroughbred horses in standard positions were scaled on a computer to measure angle and length values. Using the data obtained, body structures were tried to be revealed for both races. In addition, structural differences that increased the risk of disability in both races were assessed. There were significant differences between the head, leg, and body structures of Arabian and Thoroughbred horses. Lover length measurements were found for Arabians than for Thoroughbreds. It was noted that differences between the two breed were significant, especially in distal extremity measures. It was found that in Thoroughbreds, the rump is generally higher than the withers, and this may result in a greater loading on the forelegs. In addition to identifying the body structures and differences of both breed, the results of the study are thought to be useful for selection practises and to contribute to the understanding of the aetiology of disabilities.