Physicality of the Throughbred

Muscle tone is priority, muscle over the back, hind quarters, a fitness line at the flanks...then a healthy coat, shining, dappled ...no ribs !!!! skinny does not equal fit

Healthy horses have a shiny coat, and happy horses have an interest and desire to be there. You'll see their necks up, ears moving, taking in the surroundings
a big , alert eye, not frightened is a good sign

I generally like to see 2 grooms handling a horse in the walking ring, 1 on each side and the horse bowing its neck like a majestic lion. When I see that, without hyperactivity, it's a sign of strength.

Healthy dapples are a great sign. A healthy horse's coat will show splotches of darker color through their main hair color. These "dapples" are a sign of good nutrition.

What to look for in the post parade =

• Overall alertness. On their toes, nudging the pony. Prancy, but not too prancy.
• Well defined muscle tone.
• Fluid gait.
• Satellite ears -- twitching back and forth like a satellite dish.
• Confidence. A horse with their neck bowed feels invincible.
• Shiny coat. One that glistens in the sun. Dappled out, like freckles on a human.
• Front bandages off. Sign that a horse is getting over some physical issues.


On their toes is more of a bounce or bop...nervous is more jumping up and down or sideways..fidgety

A nervous horse often is spending more time with the lead pony trying to hang over it and looking away from the crowd.

A nervous horse often is spending more time with the lead pony trying to hang over it and looking away from the crowd.

I like to see a horse not too interested in the pony ...just walking beside.

In sprint races, look for horses who are built like a Mustang - compact, big chest and hind end. In route races, look for a horses who are built like a Ferrari - sleek, long and athletic.

Turf feet tend to be larger and flatter then dirt.

Arched neck, ears up, bounce in the step. 3 things for me, ABC.

I'm not too crazy abut bit chomping...can be a sign of nerves.

I think the head is the first thing to look at -- is it up and alert and not droopy and sleepy. Carry yourself with some confidence.

Horses who are quick stepping and not wanting to leave their feet in the slop are a negative sign on off tracks.