Breeding for conformation

Conformation is essential when breeding horses for a specific purpose, says Dr Mac. As conformation is achieved mostly through genetic means, breeders need to choose dams and sires with care.

- Dr Mac

The word ‘conformation’ refers to the basic structure of an animal, which is linked mainly to the way the bones in the skeleton are arranged. In the case of horses, each breed has a defined conformation linked to the purpose for which that breed is (or was) used. Arabians, for example, originate in hot desert areas where they were expected to carry warriors rapidly over long distances with a minimum of water and feed.

The defined structure of an Arabian horse includes very hard, dense bones and a short back (one less lumbar vertebra than other breeds). These bones are attached to strong muscles containing very little fat, which is ideal for hot climates. This conformation enables the Arabian to move fast in deep sand and over rocky ridges while carrying a rider of up to one-third of its body weight.