As can be seen below, some conformations that are considered faults for horses intended for general riding can actually help certain types of horses.
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This illustration shows a good conformation of the hocks. The lower leg is neatly balanced under the horse's hind quarters, without straggling out behind.
Horses with this conformation will be unlikely to have problems with engagement and collection, desirable in performance horses. |
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This horse is sickle-hocked, where the hind legs are carried too far in underneath the body. This conformation is actually desirable in reining horses, who have to almost sit down in their reining patterns and also in Tennessee Walkers, who take such large strides with their hind legs in the show ring. |
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Seen from the back, this horse is cow-hocked, where the hocks are close together.
Generally speaking, this is considered a fault, although in draft horses cow hocks are a desirable trait as it is thought this helps them pull loads. More Conformation Faults > Page 1, 2, 3 |
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