DefinePK

Abstract

Little data are available in the normal range of conformation traits in jumping thoroughbred horses. The aim of this study was to characterize objectively baseline measurements of lengths and angles in fifty-one jumping thoroughbred horses using tape meter and a computer-aided design program (AutoCAD, 2013). An objective photographic method of evaluating conformation was used. All data were analyzed statistically. The results of the present study revealed that the mean lengths of neck, back and breast width were 100.69±5.6, 92.47±5.66 and 51.2±5.6 cm, respectively. The mean lengths of shoulder, arm, forearm and fore cannon were 69±5, 34±2.9, 46±2.4 and 28.67±2.3 cm, respectively. The back length represented 91.8% of neck length and the arm length represented 49.7% of the shoulder length. The fore cannon length represented 62.3% of the forearm length and the forearm length represented 66.6% of the shoulder length. The fore cannon length represented 41% of the shoulder. The mean lengths of pelvis, thigh, gaskin and hind canon were 51.39±5.12, 49.66±5.12, 53.09±4.8 and 37.44±3.67 cm, respectively. The pelvis, thigh and gaskin lengths were nearly equal. The hind cannon length represented nearly 70% of the lengths of pelvis, thigh and gaskin length. The fore cannon was 25% shorter than the hind cannon. In lateral view, the mean shoulder, elbow, carpus and fore fetlock joint angles were 99±3.74°, 138.37±4.7°, 177.7±2.32° and 142.73±6°, respectively. The mean croup, hip, stifle, hock and hind fetlock angles were 144.63±4.8°, 89±8.34°, 114.94±13°, 148.59±5.3° and 149.84±8°, respectively. In dorsal view, the mean right and left shoulder, elbow, carpus and fore fetlock joint angles were 74.31±3°, 168.27±4°, 176.47±2.4° and 173.53±4.8°, respectively. In conclusion, the obtained results provide guidelines for establishing database for selection jumping thoroughbred with better athletic performance.