Evaluation of conformation against traits associated with dressage ability in unridden Iberian horses at the trot.

The research article presents a comparative analysis of the physical characteristics and gait patterns of three native Iberian dressage horses: Lusitano, Spanish, and Menorca.

Research Methods

• The research involved 66 male horses aged between 4 and 14 years and a total of four strides were recorded for each horse at a hand-led trot.
• A 3D semi-automatic movement analysis system was used to accurately record and analyze the horses’ gaits.
• The measurements and observations were interpreted through Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and Intraclass Correlations (iC).

Findings

• The study observed that the Menorca breed had proportionately longer limbs, specifically the forelimbs, making them potentially advantageous in certain aspects of dressage.
• The Lusitano breed was found to have larger inclinations, particularly in the scapula and pastern angles, which could also yield specific performance advantages in dressage.
• The Spanish Purebred horses were found to have a longer scapula and a larger hip angle, which the researchers inferred as potentially better conformation for dressage movements.
• However, all three breeds were found to have a similar tarsus joint conformation that was deemed less desirable for dressage performance.

Conclusions

• Overall, all three breeds displayed promising features in the kinematics of their forelimbs, an important aspect for dressage performance.
• However, the study pointed out a potential need for improvement in the functional capacity of the horses’ hindlimbs and in some linear parameters to enhance their competitiveness in dressage disciplines.
• This study can provide useful insights for breeders and trainers in improving dressage performance of these horse breeds through targeted training or selective breeding strategies.